LOC10:26
07:26 GMT
WASHINGTON, Dec 11 (KUNA) - The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Wednesday that its work with Syria's new leadership is based on three main tracks, stressing that the ongoing transition in the country offers a "historic opportunity."
In a recorded message to a Middle East Institute event titled "Syria and the International Community in the Post-Assad Era," CENTCOM Commander Brad Cooper said the command's efforts in Syria focus on sustaining pressure against the so-called Islamic State (ISIS), supporting the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces into the Syrian government, and expanding coordination with Syrian forces.
Cooper noted that US forces provided advice, assistance and support to Syrian partners in more than 20 operations against ISIS last October, helping reduce terrorist attacks and the spread of violence.
He added that repatriating residents from camps in northeast Syria, including Al Hal, before they are recruited by extremist groups constitutes a major setback to any ISIS resurgence.
On Syrian Democratic Forces integration, Cooper affirmed CENTCOM's full readiness to support the process, saying effective steps have already been taken, adding that both sides view the talks as important and remain committed.
Cooper also underlined the importance of cooperation with Syrian partners, noting Syria's recent accession to the Global Coalition Against ISIS and joint efforts with the Syrian government to destroy ISIS weapons and drug sites.
He emphasized that eliminating the ISIS threat requires international involvement, which the new partnership with Damascus enables.
He said CENTCOM has been actively facilitating engagement between US government agencies and Syrian officials, supporting more than a dozen visits since last summer.
He concluded by emphasizing the shared US-Syrian interest in long-term stability, saying that a peaceful, unified Syria could contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous Middle East. (end)
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