Syria’s new foreign minister announced a desire for strategic partnerships with Ukraine during a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart, amid the latter’s commitment to send increased food aid to Syria as part of humanitarian efforts. The relationship comes at a time of declining Russian influence in Syria, complicating the future of Russian military bases in the country.
Syria is seeking to establish “strategic partnerships” with Ukraine, as articulated by the newly appointed Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, during his discussion with Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha. The initiative aims to foster collaboration across political, economic, social, and scientific domains, particularly in light of diminishing Russian influence in the region. Al-Shibani highlighted shared experiences of suffering between the Syrian and Ukrainian peoples, referencing the ongoing conflicts in both nations.
In conjunction with this diplomatic overture, Ukraine has pledged to increase food aid shipments to Syria. Following the delivery of 20 shipments of flour expected soon, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed the first provision of 500 metric tons of wheat flour as part of Ukraine’s “Grain from Ukraine” initiative, facilitated through the United Nations World Food Programme. This aid seeks to address the food supply issues in Syria, exacerbated by the recent changes in governance and interruptions in Russian grain imports.
Russia’s longstanding support for Bashar al-Assad has been complicated by the recent power shift towards the Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. As doubts emerge regarding the future of Russian military bases in Syria, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has indicated that the status of these facilities will be a subject of negotiation with the new Syrian leadership. Despite these challenges, Al-Sharaa, the de facto ruler of Syria, has emphasized that relations with Russia should align with mutual interests, although specifics have yet to be disclosed.
The article discusses the emerging diplomatic relationship between Syria and Ukraine amidst changing geopolitical dynamics in the wake of the Syrian civil war and Russia’s waning influence in Syria. The appointment of Syria’s Islamist leaders has prompted Ukraine to engage with Damascus, particularly to strengthen food aid and economic collaborations. Additionally, the implications for Russian military assets in Syria are highlighted, given the uncertainties surrounding the new governance structure in the country.
In summary, Syria is actively pursuing strategic relations with Ukraine while requesting increased food assistance. As Ukraine steps forward with humanitarian aid initiatives, the evolving power dynamics in Syria might challenge Russia’s historical grip on the region. Negotiations regarding Russian military bases are imminent as both nations navigate their new roles and alliances in a shifting political landscape.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
