Syria’s new foreign minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, will visit Saudi Arabia as his first foreign trip, aiming to foster strategic relations. This visit follows increasing Arab diplomatic engagement with Syria, seeking reconstruction investments and potential political reform discussions amid ongoing regional shifts.
Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, Syria’s new foreign minister, is poised to embark on his inaugural international trip to Saudi Arabia early next month. He expressed his gratitude for the invitation received from Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan al-Saud, stating, “I am honored to represent my country on my first official visit.” Al-Shibani aims to foster strategic relations with Saudi Arabia across various sectors, reflecting a broader intent to normalize Syria’s regional ties following years of isolation due to the civil conflict that began in 2011.
This visit follows a series of high-level Arab delegations that have been traveling to Damascus to meet with the leadership there, particularly with Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has been instrumental in seeking regional support. Recent visits by foreign ministers from Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Jordan are indicative of a shifting dynamic as Syria seeks to attract investment from Gulf nations to rebuild its war-torn economy.
In comments made during an interview with Al-Arabiya, Sharaa indicated that the timeline for Syria to hold presidential elections could extend up to four years. He emphasized the need for a transitional government and participation from various societal factions before any electoral process could commence. To this end, a National Dialogue Conference is envisioned, alongside the drafting of a constitution, which is projected to take approximately three years.
In a notable diplomatic shift, a Ukrainian delegation also visited Syria, pledging humanitarian assistance, specifically 500 tonnes of flour. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy underscored the potential for restoring diplomatic ties and economic collaboration between Ukraine and Syria, marking Ukraine’s proactive stance in the region amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Commenting on this development, Zelenskyy remarked, “This is a demonstration of Ukraine’s leadership and swiftness in foreign policy…”
These developments occur against the backdrop of shifting alliances, with Russia reportedly reassessing its military presence in Syria. The political landscape remains fluid as Syria endeavors to navigate its post-war recovery and diplomatic rehabilitation.
The context of Asaad Hassan al-Shibani’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia unfolds amidst Syria’s efforts to re-establish ties with Arab nations following a decade of conflict. The Arab Spring uprisings led to significant strain on Syria’s diplomatic relationships, particularly after the violent suppression by the Assad regime. In recent months, there has been a noticeable shift as neighboring countries, once critical of Assad, are now engaging diplomatically. This includes investments and humanitarian assistance aimed at bolstering Syria’s recovering economy and infrastructure after prolonged warfare.
In conclusion, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani’s imminent visit to Saudi Arabia embodies Syria’s strategic pivot towards enhancing relations with Arab neighbors, a necessary step in its post-conflict rehabilitation. The potential for economic cooperation and investment from Gulf States is essential for Syria’s recovery, while the dialogue concerning future political reforms and elections highlights the intricate challenges ahead. Furthermore, Ukraine’s engagement illustrates the evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region, signaling a shift that could have long-term implications for Syria and its international standing.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
