New Syrian Leader Promises to Hold a 'National Dialogue Conference'

Ahmad al-Shara, the interim president of Syria, in his first speech to the Syrian people after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime, promised to hold a 'National Dialogue Conference.' Ahmad al-Shara, who has been appointed as the interim president for an unspecified period, stated on Thursday, February 11, that he is committed to establishing 'civil peace' and defending Syria's territorial integrity. In a pre-recorded televised speech, he said, 'In the coming days, we will select a committee responsible for preparing the National Dialogue Conference. This conference is an opportunity for face-to-face discussions so that we can familiarize ourselves with various viewpoints regarding the future political program of our country.' Ahmad al-Shara added that he intends to issue a 'constitutional declaration' to serve as a 'legal reference' during the transitional period, replacing the old constitution. He also vowed to pursue 'criminals who shed the blood of Syrians and committed massacres and crimes,' whether in Syria or abroad, and to establish 'real justice.' Ahmad al-Shara has been tasked with forming a transitional legislative council for Syria. This speech followed the visit of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, to Damascus, where he emphasized the urgent need to form an inclusive government during a meeting with Ahmad al-Shara. The Emir's visit to Damascus is the first by a leader of a country since Islamist rebels took power in Syria. This visit came after the Qatari Prime Minister met with officials of the interim Syrian government. According to a statement from the Qatari government, the Emir stressed the need for an immediate government that represents all segments of Syrian society, stating that only such a government can establish stability in Syria and advance reconstruction and development projects. New Syrian officials announced on Wednesday that Ahmad al-Shara has also been tasked with forming a transitional legislative council. On the same day, it was announced that all armed groups related to the rebels, the Syrian army, and security agencies affiliated with the Assad regime have been dissolved. Additionally, the Ba'ath Party and its aligned parties have been declared banned, and all Ba'ath Party assets have been transferred to the new government.