The annual meeting of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has begun in Hesekê. The meeting at the SDF headquarters is attended by the member associations of the SDF, Paul Calvert as the general commander of the international coalition against ISIS, as well as representatives of the Syrian Democratic Council (MSD), Kurdish party association PYNK, the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, women's association Kongreya Star, the Syriac women's association, the families of martyrs, the faith communities and Arab tribes.

The opening speech was delivered by SDF General Commander Mazlum Abdi. In his speech, Abdi addressed Turkey's ongoing threat to northeastern Syria and the crimes against humanity committed in the occupied territories in Afrin, Serêkaniyê and Girê Spî. This action is no different from the ISIS, Abdi said, calling on international powers, the anti-ISIS coalition and the UN to break their silence on the issue. The occupation must end, he said.

The SDF's fight against ISIS will continue without interruption, Abdi stressed. He added that the SDF remained determined to save the world from ISIS. Complete destruction of ISIS will be prevented by Turkey and other forces, he added.

Lt. Gen. Paul T. Calvert stated that cooperation with the SDF in the fight against ISIS will continue.

The SDF was formed Oct. 10, 2015, as an amalgamation of the various military units in northeastern Syria. The units with the largest number of members are the YPG and YPJ. There are now local military councils everywhere; the Syriac Military Council and the Armenian battalion are also part of the SDF.