Damascus, September 16 (Petra) – Minister of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs Ayman Safadi took part in a meeting hosted in Damascus by Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Asaad Shaibani, with the participation of Thomas Bark, US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy for Syria.

The meeting built on previous discussions held in Amman on July 19 and August 12, 2025 and focused on consolidating the ceasefire in Syria’s Sweida Governorate and outlining a roadmap for resolving the ongoing crisis in the region.

Roadmap for Resolving the Crisis in Sweida and Stabiliding Southern Syria The three nations Syria, Jordan and the United States agreed on a joint roadmap based on Syria's sovereignty, unity and the equal citizenship of all Syrians. The roadmap emphasises the following key principles: Syria’s stability, security and prosperity are vital to regional stability.

A comprehensive, Syrian-led political process is essential for rebuilding national institutions, ensuring equal representation and affirming pluralism and the rule of law.

Jordan and the US will support Syria in addressing challenges related to reconstruction, institution-building, combating extremism and national reconciliation.

The three countries reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Syria's future through practical and constructive steps. They acknowledged that the recent unrest in Sweida necessitates a comprehensive, phased approach grounded in national unity.

Key points of the agreement include: Accountability and Investigation The Syrian government will invite the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic to investigate recent incidents in Sweida and will hold perpetrators accountable under Syrian law.

Legal Action Against Violators Legal proceedings will be initiated against individuals found to have committed violations or abuses against civilians or property.

Humanitarian Aid Access Syria, with the support of Jordan and the US, will ensure the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian and medical aid in cooperation with UN agencies and other international partners.

Restoration of Basic Services The Syrian government will continue efforts to restore essential services in the governorate, with Jordan and the US working to secure funding from international donors.

Security and Movement Guarantees Qualified security forces under the Ministry of Interior will be deployed to the Sweida–Damascus highway to secure free movement for civilians and commerce.

Withdrawal of Armed Civilians All civilian fighters will be withdrawn from Sweida's administrative borders. Police forces will replace them to ensure security and enable displaced residents to return.

Release and Exchange of Detainees The three parties will support the International Committee of the Red Cross in completing detainee releases and expediting the exchange process.

Reconstruction Efforts Syria will outline a reconstruction plan for damaged villages and homes. Jordan and the US will assist in securing international support.

Promotion of National Unity and Pluralism The Syrian government will lead a national initiative promoting unity, pluralism and legal equality. It will intensify efforts to combat hate speech and may adopt legislation to criminalise incitement.

Jordan and the US offered legal support if required.

Local Dialogue and Reconciliation Jordan, in coordination with Syria, will invite representatives of Sweida's local communities including Druze, Christians, Sunnis and Bedouin tribes for reconciliation talks.

Transitional Security and Governance Arrangements The three countries will work with Sweida communities to develop transitional security and administrative arrangements, aiming for: A local, inclusive police force under the Ministry of Interior.

Activation of civil institutions in cooperation with local stakeholders.

Establishment of a provincial council representing all local components.

Completion of detainee releases and accounting for the missing.

Coordinated aid distribution.

Prevention of external interference in Sweida affairs.

Preservation and presentation of evidence for accountability.

A clear reconciliation roadmap with the Syrian government.

Regional Security Understanding with Israel The US, in consultation with Syria, will pursue security arrangements with Israel concerning southern Syria, addressing both countries' security concerns while affirming Syria's sovereignty. Jordan will support these efforts.

Monitoring and Implementation Mechanism Syria, Jordan and the United States will establish a mechanism to monitor implementation of the roadmap, ensuring full respect for Syrian sovereignty.

Statement of Commitment The roadmap reflects a shared commitment to a united, secure and prosperous Syria.

The three signatories pledged to advance peace and stability in Sweida and southern Syria through this collaborative framework.

The roadmap was signed by Safadi, Shaibani and Bark. //Petra// AK