Syria’s new Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, will visit Saudi Arabia, marking his first official trip abroad. This visit follows the recent political shifts in Syria and aims to restore ties with Gulf nations, encourage regional cooperation, and seek investments for Syria’s reconstruction post-conflict. Al-Shibani hopes to build strategic relations with Saudi Arabia, a significant step towards reestablishing Syria’s role in the Arab world.
Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, has confirmed his first official trip abroad will take him to Saudi Arabia upon an invitation from Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. Expressing his honor to represent Syria, al-Shibani highlighted the significance of the visit, which aims to build strategic ties with Saudi Arabia and restore Syria’s status in the region following the recent political changes in the country. The trip is scheduled for the first week of the new year and signals renewed diplomatic efforts following the upheaval of long-standing leader Bashar al-Assad.
During his recent engagement with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah al-Yahya in Damascus, al-Shibani emphasized the importance of reestablishing relations with Kuwait, urging authorities to reopen their embassy in Syria as a show of solidarity. This diplomatic momentum follows the overthrow of al-Assad, which has prompted regional leaders to reassess their positions towards Syria, signaling a potential shift in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states’ interactions with the country.
Al-Yahya’s visit, alongside that of GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi, underscored the intent to invest in Syria and foster regional cooperation following years of isolation from Sunni Arab states, compounded by al-Assad’s alliance with Iran and Russia. Discussions included the prospect of lifting sanctions against Syria and addressing immediate humanitarian needs, positioning the GCC states as supportive allies.
Moreover, the meeting highlighted support for Syria amidst recent developments, such as a strategic partnership with Ukraine for humanitarian assistance. The GCC’s readiness to welcome Syria back into the Arab fold could potentially aid the nation’s critical need for investment in its ailing energy sector as it seeks recovery from years of civil strife.
The recent appointment of Asaad Hassan al-Shibani as Syria’s Foreign Minister reflects a significant shift in Syria’s political landscape following the ousting of its longer-term ruler, Bashar al-Assad, earlier this month. Al-Shibani’s first official trip to Saudi Arabia serves as a pivotal move in re-establishing Syria’s diplomatic relations within the Arab world. The visit occurs during a time of regional change, where Gulf states are increasingly open to engaging with Syria, previously boycotted due to al-Assad’s alliances with Iranian and Russian forces. The Gulf Cooperation Council’s renewed interest in Syria emphasizes the gradual steps towards normalization and regional cooperation, aiming to foster economic revivals and humanitarian assistance in a post-conflict landscape.
In summary, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani’s planned visit to Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in Syria’s diplomatic efforts following a tumultuous political transition. His discourse on reviving ties with Gulf nations, including Kuwait, symbolizes a potential thawing of relations that could lead to renewed investments and strategic partnerships. The GCC’s willingness to reengage with Syria indicates a shift in regional dynamics, reflecting an opportunity for the nation to rebuild after years of conflict and isolation.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
