Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, will visit Saudi Arabia in his first official trip abroad. This visit underscores efforts to rebuild Syria’s regional relations following the fall of Assad. Al-Shibani seeks to bolster diplomatic ties and economic cooperation, particularly as Kuwait and GCC officials approach Damascus to renew discussions on investments and support for recovery efforts in Syria.
Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, has confirmed his forthcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, marking his first official overseas trip since his appointment following the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad. In a statement conveyed via social media, al-Shibani expressed his honor at representing Syria during this visit and underscored the significance of fostering strategic relations with Saudi Arabia across multiple fields. He emphasized the visit’s role in demonstrating goodwill and in enhancing Syria’s regional standing post-Assad. The visit is anticipated to occur during the first week of the new year, as al-Shibani engages in discussions about rebuilding diplomatic ties and cooperation following years of conflict.
During a joint press conference in Damascus, al-Shibani called upon Kuwait to reopen its embassy and resume diplomatic relations with Syria, reflecting a growing trend as many regional leaders seek to establish connections with the interim Syrian government after al-Assad’s regime fell on December 8. Kuwait’s Foreign Minister, Abdullah al-Yahya, and GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi, who recently visited Damascus, highlighted their discussions on regional cooperation and the necessity for international bodies to reconsider existing sanctions against Syria. These diplomatic moves represent a broader shift among Sunni Arab states, which had previously distanced themselves from Assad’s administration due to its alliances with Shia Iran and Russia.
In further developments, al-Sharaa, Syria’s de facto leader, has engaged with officials from Ukraine, formalizing a strategic partnership that aims to enhance collaboration between the two nations. Al-Sharaa’s discussions with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister also included announcements regarding humanitarian efforts, such as the dispatching of food aid to Syria. Observers note that the influx of delegations to Damascus indicates a willingness from Gulf nations to invest in Syria’s recovery, particularly in critical sectors such as energy, which have sustained extensive damage over the prolonged civil war.
Syria has been emerging from a prolonged civil conflict that has severely impacted its political structure and international relations. Following the recent overthrow of the Assad regime, the interim government is actively seeking to rebuild diplomatic ties with neighboring countries, particularly within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This marks a significant pivot in Syria’s foreign policy, as the new leadership aims to restore its standing in the region, which had been largely diminished during the years of civil war and diplomatic isolation. The increasing interaction among Arab states post-Assad’s departure signifies a potential shift towards reintegrating Syria into the Arab world, addressing mutual economic and security concerns.
The forthcoming visit of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani to Saudi Arabia symbolizes a pivotal moment in reshaping Syria’s foreign relations following the overthrow of the Assad regime. As regional powers express support for the new Syrian administration and emphasize the potential for investment and cooperation, this development may lead to significant advancements in Syria’s recovery and reintegration into the Arab community. The diplomatic engagements, particularly with countries like Kuwait and GCC members, demonstrate a collective interest in stabilizing and rebuilding Syria post-conflict.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
