London: A joint statement by the UK, France, Germany, and the US welcomed the 15-day extension of the ceasefire announced on January 24 between the Syrian Government Forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces in Northeast Syria.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the statement followed a meeting between French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot, United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, German Deputy Foreign Minister Serap Gler, and US Special Envoy Tom Barrack. The leaders called upon all parties to strictly adhere to the ceasefire, urging them to exercise restraint and encouraging external parties to join efforts towards peace and the de-escalation of violence. The statement reiterated the obligation to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The statement also welcomed the establishment of humanitarian corridors to ensure the delivery of assistance and emphasized the need to maintain these corridors while resuming basic services in the city of Kobane. It acknowledged the significant role played by partners such as Iraq, the Kurdistan Regional Government, the Syrian Government, and the Syrian Democratic Forces in addressing challenges posed by ISIS.
The joint statement highlighted the need to avoid security vacuums around ISIS detention centers and suggested convening a meeting of the International Coalition against ISIS to address these concerns. It further urged all parties to agree to a permanent ceasefire and resume negotiations for the peaceful integration of Northeast Syria into a unitary and sovereign state, as outlined in the 18 January 2026 agreement. The aim is to maintain stability and protect the rights of all citizens.
The leaders reaffirmed their support for an inclusive political transition in Syria, emphasizing that stabilizing Northeast Syria through peaceful means is crucial for preventing terrorism resurgence and ensuring regional security. The statement concluded by underlining the readiness to support and monitor the implementation of agreements aimed at integrating Northeast Syria into a unitary and inclusive state, which protects the rights of all its citizens.