The President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC), Hadi Al-Bahra, and his accompanying delegation met with the Syrian National Movement, active in Syria, at its guest house in the town of Jarabulus. During the meeting, both sides emphasized the importance of the political movement and the necessity of collective action to amplify the Syrian people’s voice and increase international interest in Syrian affairs.
The SOC’s delegation, including Vice President Abdel Majeed Barakat and SCO members Ahmed Tomeh, Jihad Maraie, Muhammad Ali Issa, Abdullah Kaddo, and Zuhair Muhammad, engaged in discussions with the Syrian National Movement, represented by its Secretary-General, Zakaria Malahifji, his Deputy Khaled Al-Mujbil and several other members.
Al-Bahra commended the Movement’s method of work, describing it as organized and committed to positive discourse that fosters continuity and development. He stressed the necessity of Syrian unity, highlighting the importance of focusing on commonalities rather than divisive differences. Al-Bahra emphasized, “In a future Syria, no Syrian party must be excluded, and freedom of expression, assembly, and peaceful demonstration must be guaranteed.”
He added, “Political parties and independent politicians should compete in electoral campaigns based on their programs and plans. Ultimately, the ballot box should determine Syria’s leadership, in accordance with its constitution rather than partisan doctrines.”
Regarding the impediments to democratic transition, Al-Bahra identified the Assad regime as the major obstacle, emphasizing the necessity of its removal. However, he cautioned that the revolution’s true success lies in fulfilling the aspirations of Syrians for freedom, justice, and democracy.
Al-Bahra underscored the pivotal role of political parties in society to disseminate political awareness and foster political consensus among Syrians.
In discussing the challenges faced by liberated areas, Al-Bahra outlined the SOC’s priorities, including improving living conditions by bolstering the local economy. He stressed the importance of empowering the Syrian interim government and providing necessary resources. He highlighted the Syria Recovery Trust Fund’s support for small projects, such as granting loans to farmers and subsidizing bread prices.
During the meeting, Vice President Abdel Majeed Barakat lauded the Syrian National Movement’s work, emphasizing its significance in the revolution and liberated areas.
Barakat also addressed the threat posed by the Iranian project in Syria, attributing responsibility to the Assad regime for enabling this danger through sectarian ideologies.
Khaled Al-Mujbil, Head of the National Movement, elucidated the Movement’s purpose, emphasizing engagement with society and coordination with Syrian national forces and neighboring countries.
Zakaria Malahifji, Secretary of the Movement, provided insight into its composition and activities, highlighting its presence even in areas under Assad regime control.
Attendees discussed the challenges confronting northern Syria, emphasizing the need to address economic and organizational obstacles and strive for a unified vision of the future Syria. They stressed the imperative of cohesion between the Syrian people and revolutionary forces in international forums.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
