My servant: The March agreement with Damascus is in effect.. and the integration of civil and military institutions is under preparation.

The commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Mazloum Abdi, revealed that the agreement signed between the Autonomous Administration and the Syrian government in March is still in effect, with both parties committed to its provisions.

Abdi mentioned the formation of joint committees to implement the agreement, including the integration of civil and military institutions under the Autonomous Administration into the Syrian state institutions, such as border crossings, oil fields, and security apparatuses.

This came during an interview with the Kurdish channel "Shams," where Abdi added: "The integration process will take time and may extend for years, but it will not be merely formal, rather it will be within a clear political framework that recognizes administrative decentralization and cultural rights of the Kurds and the components of northern and eastern Syria."

Abdi emphasized his rejection of any arrangements "that revert the situation to pre-revolution times," while insisting on the continuity of the SDF as an organized force within the new Syrian army.

Abdi touched upon the relationship with Turkey, indicating "direct communication with Ankara through open channels and intermediaries," expressing his openness to meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan "if political conditions allow."

Abdi clarified: "We are not in a state of war with Turkey, and we hope that the temporary ceasefire will turn into a permanent calm that opens the door to broader understandings."

It is worth noting that the two sides reached a ceasefire in December last year through American mediation, following clashes in northern areas, while negotiations continue on pending issues, most notably the integration of the SDF into the Syrian army and border security arrangements.

Abdi warned against the return of ISIS to organize its ranks in some major cities, taking advantage of the security vacuum, affirming continued coordination with the international coalition to confront it.

Abdi also denied any contact with Israel, stating: "The SDF is only concerned with good neighborliness and does not seek any external alignment," while indicating that Syrian-Israeli normalization was done "under Washington's conditions."

Abdi considered lifting sanctions on Syria a "positive step," despite the official exclusion of the Autonomous Administration areas, pointing out its negative impact on livelihoods. He concluded by emphasizing that "the Kurdish people will no longer accept marginalization," calling for "a new Syria based on justice and recognition of all components."

The SDF commander concluded by saying: "We believe in a united and free Syria, and we are an essential part of its future."