Syria’s new Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani will visit Saudi Arabia following an invitation from his Saudi counterpart, marking his first official trip abroad. The visit aims to strengthen relations with GCC countries post-al-Assad era and encourage investments in Syria, amidst calls for a reevaluation of sanctions against the nation.
Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, has announced his acceptance of an invitation from Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah to visit Saudi Arabia. This will be al-Shibani’s inaugural official trip abroad. Expressing his honor to represent Syria, al-Shibani remarked via a post on X, “I am honoured to represent my country on my first official visit [to Saudi Arabia].”
The visit is not only a symbol of goodwill but also a significant stride in rekindling Syria’s regional presence following the recent ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad. Appointment to his current role was made on December 21 by Syria’s interim government, marking his position as the nation’s first foreign minister in the aftermath of al-Assad’s regime.
Scheduled for the first week of the new year, al-Shibani’s trip is emblematic of an emerging willingness among Gulf states to re-establish ties following significant political changes in Syria. In discussions with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah al-Yahya, al-Shibani urged Kuwait to reopen its embassy in Damascus and resume bilateral relations. Al-Yahya’s visit mirrors a broader trend among regional leaders seeking closer interactions with Syria subsequent to the fall of al-Assad on December 8.
The recent developments in Syrian politics follow the significant political shift after the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad. For over a decade, Syria was isolated from Arab states due to its alliances with Iran and Russia during the Syrian civil war. Recent diplomatic engagements indicate a desire by Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations to reintegrate Syria into the Arab fold and foster investments that could support its economy, which has suffered extensive damage over thirteen years of conflict. These engagements highlight a strategic pivot in the region, aiming to open new avenues for cooperation and assistance.
In summary, Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment in Syria’s foreign relations, signaling a potential thaw in ties with Arab states. The engagement reflects a collective acknowledgment of Syria’s renewed political landscape and hints at broader regional investment and cooperation efforts in the aftermath of significant governmental changes. The call for diluting sanctions signifies a shift towards constructive diplomatic relations, which may aid in rebuilding the war-torn country.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
