Efforts are in full swing to organize the upcoming Syrian National Dialogue Conference, with informed sources confirming the formation of a preparatory committee.
According to reports on Monday, 1,200 Syrians from both inside and outside the country are expected to be invited. The attendees will participate as individuals rather than representatives of organizations, with 70 to 100 participants from each governorate, encompassing all social groups.
Dr. Moayad Qablawi, the conference coordinator, announced in a recent interview that the preparatory committee will soon be officially unveiled, as preparations intensify for the event scheduled for January 4-5.
Local media reports indicate that the committee is finalizing invitations, organizing sessions, and drafting the conference schedule. Invitations will be extended to military personnel, clergy from various sects, politicians, civil society representatives, experts, and legal professionals. All participants will attend in their personal capacities, avoiding representation of external entities.
Excluded from the conference are groups such as the Syrian Coalition, the Negotiations Committee, and political or military factions formed during the 13-year Syrian crisis, which the new administration deems outdated following the regime change.
The conference is expected to lead to significant milestones, including drafting a new constitution for Syria, establishing a new government within a month, and dissolving the People’s Assembly and all armed factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTC), which played a key role in toppling the Assad regime.
Sources have also confirmed ongoing discussions with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Kurdish National Council regarding their participation in the dialogue. Speaking to Al-Arabiya Al-Hadath, Ahmed al-Sharaa, the HTS-leader-turned de facto ruler of Syria, highlighted the topics to be addressed during the conference in Damascus.
These include the disbanding of HTC and other armed factions, alongside the integration of such groups—including the SDF—into the Ministry of Defense. Key issues such as the constitution, elections, and broader national reconciliation will also be on the agenda.
According to the sources, messages of reassurance have been sent both domestically and internationally, emphasizing the preservation of Syria’s societal diversity and the inclusion of its various components.
The conference will feature a broad array of participants, including Syrian youth, women, clergy, and civil society representatives. Additionally, an advisory body will likely be formed to assist the interim president, comprising individuals chosen for their merit and competence.
