On Sunday, September 21, 2025, an Australian delegation headed by Mr. David Shoebridge, a member of the Australian Senate, along with his accompanying delegation, visited the headquarters of the Department of Foreign Relations in Qamishlo, as part of a field tour to observe the political, social, and humanitarian situation in the region.

They were received by the Co-Chair of the Department of Foreign Relations, Mr. Fanar Al-Kait, and the Deputies of the Co-Chair, Mr. Rubel Baho and Ms. Kulistan Ali.

The presidential body welcomed this visit, considering it a positive step, and emphasized the necessity of expanding international openness to NES and activating serious political dialogues to overcome the current crisis.

During the meeting, discussions touched on the overall situation in Syria, particularly in the regions of NES, in addition to the experience of the Democratic Autonomous Administration as a model to be followed, and the pioneering role played by women within the Administration’s institutions, both civilian and military alike.

Both sides also stressed the importance of a comprehensive political solution as the only way to end the Syrian crisis, in addition to the need to implement the March 10 Agreement and guarantee the rights of all Syrian components, foremost among them women’s rights.

Mr. David Shoebridge expressed his appreciation for the experience of the Autonomous Administration, especially with regard to involving women in decision-making positions, affirming that this experience “deserves support and to be shared as a unique democratic model in the region.”

Shoebridge also emphasized his appreciation for the efforts made by the Autonomous Administration in maintaining stability and combating terrorism, praising the role of the Syrian Democratic Forces in confronting ISIS.