Syria’s OIC membership has been re-activated after 13 years of suspension due to its civil war. This decision was made during an OIC meeting in Jeddah, following proposals by Turkish officials and the recent political changes in Syria. The actions signal Syrian efforts to rebuild its diplomatic relations in the region.
Syria’s membership in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has been re-activated after nearly thirteen years of being frozen. A Turkish diplomatic source confirmed that this decision was made during a meeting held in Jeddah on Friday, where the 57-member group convened. The suspension of Syria’s membership began in 2012 due to the ongoing civil conflict in the nation.
Following the recent toppling of Bashar al-Assad by Syrian rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the newly established government is actively working to restore relations with various Arab nations and Western powers. The initiative to reinstate Syria’s OIC membership was proposed by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and was subsequently accepted by the organization.
In a notable gesture, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani was invited to take up Syria’s seat at the meeting immediately following the vote. A video released by Turkey’s Foreign Ministry captured the moment, showing members of the OIC applauding as the minister entered the room to mark this significant occasion.
Turkey, a NATO member, has long been an ally of the rebel factions seeking to remove Assad from power and is now aligned with the new Islamist government in Syria. Furthermore, Turkey has pledged support in rebuilding the nation and assisting the new government in military training.
Recently, at an Arab League summit invitation extended by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Syria’s new President Ahmed al-Sharaa has taken a significant step towards re-establishing ties with the Arab world following the fall of Assad.
The re-activation of Syria’s OIC membership marks a pivotal moment for the nation following years of isolation due to its civil conflict. This development indicates a broader effort by Syria to mend diplomatic relations with Arab nations and the international community. The support of Turkey and recent engagements with Arab leaders support Syria’s endeavors to rebuild and stabilize under its new leadership.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
