During a visit to Doha, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani urged the U.S. to lift sanctions impeding Syria’s recovery from conflict. He expressed a desire for Qatar to become a partner in Syria’s new phase and outlined a roadmap for rebuilding the country that includes restoring civil rights and foreign relations. Following this visit, Shibani plans to engage with officials in the UAE and Jordan.
During his recent visit to Doha, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani urged the United States to lift sanctions that he asserts impede Syria’s recovery from years of conflict. He characterized these sanctions as barriers to the rapid rehabilitation and development that the Syrian populace urgently requires. Following discussions with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Shibani expressed confidence that Qatar, having previously withheld formal relations with the Assad regime, can become a partner in Syria’s new chapter.
This visit represents Shibani’s second regional trip since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad, alongside a delegation including Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and intelligence chief Anas Khattab, which engaged with top Qatari officials. The Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mohammed al-Khulaifi, revealed that Shibani shared a comprehensive strategy for Syria’s future, outlining initiatives aimed at reconstruction, renewed Arab and foreign relations, and the restoration of civil rights for the Syrian populace. In addition to Qatar, Shibani plans to visit the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, following his inaugural foreign trip to Saudi Arabia to deliberate on facilitating Syria’s political transition.
The call by Syria’s foreign minister to lift U.S. sanctions is rooted in a broader context of the Syrian civil war, which has profoundly affected the nation and its citizens. Following years of internal conflict and the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad, Syria is in dire need of rehabilitation and foreign assistance for economic recovery. Sanctions imposed on the Syrian government have complicated this process, as leaders like Shibani seek to foster relations with regional allies, notably Qatar, which has recently reconsidered its stance towards Syria.
In conclusion, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani’s appeal for the lifting of U.S. sanctions underscores the challenges facing Syria as it navigates its recovery post-conflict. His strategic dialogues with Qatari officials signify a potential shift in regional relations, as Syria endeavors to rebuild and restore its standing both domestically and internationally. With further meetings scheduled in the UAE and Jordan, the Syrian government is actively seeking partnerships to rebuild and reintegrate into the Arab community.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
