Kurds must be part of Syria’s future, says French FM

DAMASCUS,— French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stressed the importance of integrating Kurdish groups into Syria’s evolving political framework during a groundbreaking visit to Damascus on Friday.

Alongside his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, Barrot became one of the first senior European officials to visit Syria since President Bashar al-Assad was ousted in December 2024, following 13 years of civil war.

Barrot highlighted the need for a political solution that includes Syria’s Kurdish fighters, particularly the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the de facto army of the autonomous Kurdish administration in Syrian Kurdistan (Rojava).

“A permanent ceasefire is essential, and the inclusion of Kurdish forces in Syria’s state structures is a step toward sustainable peace,” Barrot told reporters after meeting Syrian civil society representatives.

The visit, carried out on behalf of the European Union, marked a cautious attempt to establish dialogue with Syria’s new leadership under Ahmed al-Sharaa also known as Abu Mohammad al-Golani, head of the Islamist rebel coalition Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), formerly known as al-Nusra Front.

Baerbock has urged Syria’s newly established leadership to uphold equal rights for men and women while safeguarding the rights of all ethnic and religious communities.

Notably, Islamist leader Sharaa declined to shake hands with Minister Baerbock, underscoring cultural and religious sensitivities during the meeting.

The ministers held discussions in Damascus’s People’s Palace, although no specific outcomes were disclosed.

Baerbock and Barrot emphasized their expectations for moderation, minority rights, and an inclusive government. “Syria must ensure the protection of all its citizens and respect the principles agreed upon with regional actors,” Baerbock said.

Barrot also acknowledged the Kurds’ significant role in stabilizing Syria, calling their cooperation with international actors pivotal for the region’s future. However, he stopped short of detailing when the EU might reconsider its sanctions on Syria.

The European ministers pledged technical assistance in drafting a new Syrian constitution, signaling a long-term commitment to democratic reform. Barrot expressed hope for restoring diplomatic ties with Syria, contingent on progress toward a peaceful and inclusive governance structure.

During their visit, the ministers toured the infamous Sednaya prison, where thousands were reportedly tortured and killed under Assad’s regime. “We must ensure justice for the countless victims of this prison,” Baerbock said.

The trip underscores Europe’s delicate balancing act in addressing Syria’s humanitarian and political crises while pushing for respect for minority groups like the Kurds.

(With files from Reuters)