Syria’s new leadership welcomes regional and global diplomacy
Jordan’s Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, met with Syria’s de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus, marking a significant step in regional diplomacy following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad two weeks ago. During his visit, Safadi emphasised Jordan’s support for Syria’s reconstruction and stressed the importance of a stable and secure Syria that meets the aspirations of its people through a transitional process. Highlighting the deep ties between the two nations, he noted Jordan’s strategic interest in ensuring the security of their shared 375-kilometre border, which has been a hotspot for drug and weapon smuggling in recent years.
Qatar has also resumed engagement with Syria, with Mohammed al-Khulaifi, a senior official at Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, visiting Damascus shortly after the reopening of Doha’s embassy there following a 13-year hiatus. Al-Khulaifi is set to hold discussions with Syrian officials to reaffirm Qatar’s commitment to supporting the Syrian people. Similarly, Turkiye’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, met al-Sharaa to discuss political transition and rebuilding efforts and the importance of lifting international sanctions on Syria. These diplomatic overtures signal a broader regional effort to stabilise and integrate post-conflict Syria.
The wave of diplomatic visits extended beyond immediate neighbours. Syrian officials hosted discussions with representatives from Saudi Arabia, the United States, and European nations, highlighting a growing international interest in the country’s new leadership. The United States, represented by Barbara Leaf, expressed hopes for Syria to eliminate Iranian influence in its affairs. Meanwhile, Iran reiterated its commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and called for an end to foreign interference, reflecting ongoing geopolitical complexities surrounding the nation’s future.
Jordan’s role as a key regional player was further underscored by hosting a summit earlier this month that included Arab, Turkish, EU, and US diplomats, calling for an inclusive and peaceful transition in Syria. The summit highlighted Jordan’s interest in fostering regional stability and its commitment to addressing humanitarian challenges, including hosting over a million Syrian refugees. Al Jazeera’s Hashem Ahelbarra reported that al-Sharaa seeks formal diplomatic recognition from neighbouring countries, with these recent engagements serving to rebuild Syria’s ties with the region and beyond after more than a decade of isolation.
Minister of State at Ministry of Foreign Affairs @Dr_Al_Khulaifi Meets New Syria Administration Leader#MOFAQatar pic.twitter.com/r3musF8Xe1
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) December 23, 2024