Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani visited Qatar, aiming to restore diplomatic relations and seek support for Syria’s economic recovery. Following recent political changes, al-Shibani plans further meetings in Jordan and the UAE. The HTS-led government is focused on lifting sanctions as urgent humanitarian needs persist in the country, while challenges remain regarding international acceptance of its governance approach.
Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shibani, recently visited Qatar for discussions aimed at re-establishing diplomatic relations amid a changing political landscape following the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. Al-Shibani’s trip follows his hosting of French and German Foreign Ministers in Damascus and marks an effort by the Syrian government, now under the control of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), to engage with both regional and global powers.
During his visit to Doha, al-Shibani conversed with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, as part of Syria’s strategy to develop partnerships with neighboring countries, including upcoming visits planned to Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. His recent engagements also encompassed meetings with Saudi officials to further these diplomatic efforts.
With the recent fall of al-Assad’s regime, which resulted in the loss of lives estimated at 500,000 during the civil conflict, the HTS is now focusing on rebuilding Syria’s economy. The Syrian administration is seeking to lift economic sanctions imposed due to previous human rights violations committed during the regime’s crackdown on dissent.
Despite the challenges ahead, including skepticism from Western powers regarding the lifting of sanctions, al-Shibani articulated concerns over the impact of economic constraints on the Syrian populace and urged for a reconsideration by the United States. With a staggering 90% of Syrians living in poverty and significant uncertainty about day-to-day sustenance, the need for economic revitalization is urgent. Al-Sharaa, under HTS leadership, has proposed a national dialogue summit to forge a path toward a new political landscape, including the drafting of a constitution and holding of elections. Nevertheless, the future remains uncertain as the international community weighs the implications of re-engagement with a reshaped Syrian government.
The context of this diplomatic outreach stems from the significant political shifts in Syria following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, whose regime was characterized by widespread violence and repression. The HTS, an Islamist group, emerged from the chaos of the civil war and has sought to consolidate power in northern Syria. Previous diplomatic relations were severed due to al-Assad’s abuses, and many countries imposed sanctions on Syria to protest its treatment of civilians. The new foreign minister’s efforts to re-establish relations are a reflection of HTS’s strategy to normalize diplomatic ties and stabilize Syria’s economy while seeking international support.
In summary, Asaad al-Shibani’s visit to Qatar represents a significant step in Syria’s attempt to restore diplomatic relations and gather international support for economic recovery. As Syria remains under HTS influence, the focus on lifting sanctions and addressing the humanitarian crisis is paramount. The proposed national dialogue summit signifies a potential shift in Syrian governance, yet international apprehensions about HTS’s approach to governance, particularly regarding minority rights and women’s issues, may continue to pose hurdles. The outcome of these efforts will depend largely on the response from global powers and regional neighbors.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
