Syria needs emergency plan: Al-Sharaa at National Dialogue Conference

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
25 Feb 2025 13:19

During the opening of the Syrian National Dialogue Conference's main session, transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa emphasized that Syria should not be divided.

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Syria's interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, during a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, following their meeting at the presidential palace in Ankara, Turkiye, on February 4, 2025. (AP)

Ahmad al-Sharaa, the head of the transitional government in Syria, opened the main session of the Syrian National Dialogue Conference on Tuesday.

He stressed that "Syria will not tolerate division; it remains an indivisible nation," underscoring that "the exclusive control of weapons by the state is not a privilege, but a fundamental duty and responsibility."

Al-Sharaa further stated, "Syria has endured immense pain and suffering under decades of the former regime's rule," urging conference participants to work together and engage in constructive dialogue for the country's future.

In his speech, he stated, "The next stage requires work and reconstruction, not mourning over ruins," and added, "Syria has called on you today to come together and consult about the future of your country and your nation."

He continued, "Syria needs an emergency plan, followed by a medium-term plan, and then a comprehensive strategy," emphasizing that civil peace must be a responsibility shared by all citizens of the country.

Regarding security prosecutions, al-Sharaa explained that over the past two months, authorities have been working to pursue those responsible for crimes against Syrians, emphasizing that there is a strong focus on strengthening transitional justice in the next phase.

Al-Sharaa emphasized that a body will be established to implement transitional justice, urging the establishment of a Syrian state founded on the rule of law, with respect for it from all parties.

The conference, which began yesterday, has brought together over 500 Syrian political and national figures. It continues its discussions on the country's future, considering the current situation, on its second day.

SDF was not invited

On the other hand, The New York Times reported that invitations for the dialogue were sent to hundreds of participants, including academics, religious leaders, journalists, businesspeople, activists, former detainees, and the families of those killed or injured in the war.

Among the invitees were some Kurds, who represent about 10 percent of Syria's population; however, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) were not invited.

The organizers stated that the conference's recommendations on government formation, constitutional drafting, and legislation will be non-binding.

Hassan al-Daghim, the committee spokesperson, confirmed that these recommendations will lay the groundwork for the interim constitutional declaration, economic framework, and institutional reform plan.