On Friday, Syria’s newly appointed foreign minister, Asaad Al-Shibani, announced that he would be making official visits to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Jordan in the coming days. This announcement came shortly after his initial diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia. The primary focus of Syria’s new leadership is to attract foreign investment to revitalize the country’s war-torn infrastructure and stimulate economic recovery after over a decade of conflict.
In a statement posted on X, Al-Shibani expressed his optimism about the upcoming visits, stating, “This week, I will represent Syria on official visits to our brothers in Qatar, the UAE, and Jordan.” He emphasized that these diplomatic efforts are aimed at fostering stability, ensuring security, stimulating economic recovery, and establishing strong partnerships.
Syrian FM in Riyadh
Earlier in the week, Al-Shibani led a high-ranking delegation to Riyadh that included Syria’s defense minister and intelligence chief. This trip marked the first foreign visit undertaken by Syria’s new leadership since the removal of President Bashar al-Assad. It represented a significant shift in the country’s diplomatic approach, signaling a new phase under the leadership of Syria’s interim government.
Al-Shibani also shared details about his discussions with Saudi officials during his visit to Riyadh. In a post on X, he revealed that he had conveyed the vision of a new government in Syria based on partnership and inclusivity, one that embraces all sectors of Syrian society. According to Al-Shibani, Saudi Arabia expressed its full support for Syria’s political renaissance, reaffirming its commitment to the country’s unity and territorial integrity.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister, reiterated his nation’s stance, stressing its unwavering commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also emphasized Saudi Arabia’s desire to help Syria achieve long-term security, stability, and prosperity. The talks between the two sides also focused on preserving the core institutions of the Syrian state, reinforcing their capabilities, and facilitating Syria’s reintegration into the broader Arab and Islamic communities.
The Syrian delegation, which included Defense Minister Marahf Abu Qasra and Intelligence Chief Anas Khattab, was warmly received upon their arrival at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The delegation was greeted by Waleed Elkhereiji, Saudi Arabia’s deputy foreign minister, marking the beginning of a new diplomatic chapter for Syria. This visit followed the removal of Bashar al-Assad on December 8, signaling a shift in the political landscape of the country.
The visit to Saudi Arabia also came on the heels of remarks made by Syria’s new leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, who highlighted Saudi Arabia’s potential role in shaping Syria’s future during an interview with Al Arabiya. Al-Sharaa expressed his belief that Saudi Arabia could play a pivotal role in guiding Syria through its recovery and reconstruction.
The delegation’s visit to Saudi Arabia is an important step for Syria’s new leadership, as it seeks to reassert its position in the Arab world and gain the international support necessary to rebuild the nation. With an eye on future partnerships, Syria hopes that the visits to Qatar, the UAE, and Jordan will further strengthen its diplomatic relations and bring in much-needed economic assistance. The nation remains focused on rebuilding its infrastructure, stabilizing its economy, and laying the groundwork for long-term peace and development after years of devastating conflict.
