Damascus: Syria’s newly appointed Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, Hind Kabawat, in the interim government, has underscored her commitment to inclusivity, stating that her position transcends religious and sectarian divides and is dedicated to serving all Syrian men and women.
According to Anadolu Agency, Kabawat shared that she has received support from various religious communities, highlighting that Syria is evolving beyond being a nation tied to a single religion or sect. “I have received congratulations and encouraging words from Christian, Muslim, Druze, Alawite, and Ismaili religious leaders,” she noted, emphasizing the collaborative spirit among diverse religious and ethnic groups, including Ezidi and Kurdish communities.
Kabawat elaborated on the technocratic nature of the new government, which was established based on merit in late March. She affirmed that the appointments were made purely based on expertise and legal backgrounds, without personal gain considerations. “This proves that it is a government of experts,” Kabawat stated, reflecting on her extensive experience in social services and her conviction that Syria can be rebuilt on the foundations of labor and willpower.
Addressing the concept of minorities, Kabawat rejected its divisive potential, asserting, “We are Syrians. We are citizens, both men and women. We are all equal.” She stressed the importance of moving towards citizenship as the basis for building a new Syria, reiterating that her position serves all Syrians.
In her early days as a minister, Kabawat expressed her intention to collaborate closely with ministry staff to develop a strategic plan, saying, “We will build the ministry together, not destroy it.” She called for patience and trust, acknowledging the resilience of those who have worked under challenging conditions.
Kabawat also highlighted the ministry’s commitment to partnering with civil society, inviting innovative ideas and contributions from all societal sectors. “One hand by itself cannot make a sound,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for collective effort in the transitional period following President Bashar Assad’s departure to Russia on December 8 and the subsequent announcement of a transitional government by Ahmad al-Sharaa on March 30.