President Nechirvan Barzani meets SDF commander Mazloum Abdi in Erbil to discuss Syria, ISIS fight

ERBIL — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met Wednesday night with General Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, to discuss developments in Syria, ongoing efforts to combat ISIS, and the importance of Kurdish unity in shaping the country’s future.

According to a statement from the Kurdistan Region Presidency, the meeting in Erbil addressed ties between the Syrian Democratic Forces and Kurdish political parties, as well as their relationship with the Syrian government. Both sides also discussed persistent threats posed by terrorism and strategies to counter ISIS.

Full statement from Kurdistan Region Presidency:

Last night in Erbil, President Nechirvan Barzani met with General Mazloum Abdi, Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The meeting focused on recent developments in Syria, including the relations between the Syrian Democratic Forces and Kurdish political parties, their ties with the Syrian government, and the ongoing challenges related to terrorism and the fight against ISIS.

Both sides emphasized the importance of including Kurds and all communities in Syria in the country’s governance and administration, to ensure the rights of all. They also agreed on the need for cooperation among Syrian communities to maintain peace and stability while addressing various threats and challenges.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of unity and coordination among Kurdish factions and political groups in Syria in achieving the Kurdish people’s aspirations and legitimate rights. Additionally, the situation in the Al-Hawl refugee camp and the role of the international coalition in the fight against ISIS were key topics during the meeting.
Erbil, Kurdistan Region
April 24, 2025