Syria is set to hold a landmark national conference in Damascus on January 4 and 5, aiming to shape the country's future following the fall of the Assad government. Reports indicate that the conference will address the dissolution of all armed factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa, who was instrumental in toppling the Assad regime on December 8.
This event marks the first pan-national conference since the significant regime change in Syria. Organizers plan to invite approximately 1,200 Syrians from both within the country and abroad, along with 70 to 100 representatives from each province representing various social groups. The agenda includes establishing a constitutional drafting committee and proposing the formation of a new government within a month. Participants will include representatives from youth groups, women's organizations, the clergy, and civil societies.
Additionally, the Syrian interim administration, led by al-Sharaa, has committed to strengthening ties with Gulf nations following high-level discussions with a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) delegation. Led by Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya and GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, the delegation emphasized the importance of Syria's sovereignty and the need to support the country's stability. The interim Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, expressed a desire to reintegrate Syria into its Arab environment and enhance relationships with Gulf nations.
The GCC delegation also discussed strategies to revitalize Syria's war-torn economy and advocated for the lifting of international sanctions. GCC officials reiterated their support for Syria's sovereignty and unity, calling for a comprehensive political transition to ensure lasting regional stability. They also condemned foreign interference in Syrian affairs, specifically demanding Israel's withdrawal from the Golan Heights and opposing its settlement expansions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
