Syria’s new Islamist leaders, during a visit to Qatar, urged the U.S. to lift sanctions hindering the country’s recovery. Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani emphasized the need for partnerships to support the Syrian people, as he outlined a roadmap for Syria’s future development, seeking collaborative efforts with regional partners for stability and progress.
During a diplomatic visit to Qatar, Syria’s newly established Islamist government officials urged the United States to alleviate sanctions that they claim hinder the war-torn country’s recovery. Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, after discussions with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, stated that these sanctions impede opportunities for the Syrian populace to receive essential services and partnerships from other nations. Al-Shibani emphasized that the sanctions have shifted from targeting the former regime to adversely affecting the general Syrian populace.
This important visit marks Al-Shibani’s engagement with Qatari officials, highlighting Qatar’s role as a partner in Syria’s new phase post-Bashar al-Assad. Qatar had previously distanced itself from the Assad regime and had supported opposition forces following the protests in 2011. Al-Shibani, accompanied by senior Syrian defense and intelligence officials, provided a proposed roadmap for Syria’s future, underscoring intentions to restore the nation’s ties within the Arab world and beyond.
In addition to his discussions in Qatar, he is scheduled to visit the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, aiming to advance security, stability, and economic recovery in Syria. Al-Shibani’s itinerary also includes talks with Saudi officials regarding Syria’s political transition post-Assad. All efforts seem directed towards building a government that genuinely represents the interests of the Syrian people and safeguarding against foreign interference in domestic affairs.
This article outlines the diplomatic initiatives by the new Islamist leadership in Syria, particularly following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December 2023. The context revolves around the U.S. sanctions that have been imposed on Syria for several years, primarily targeting the Assad regime but now seen as detrimental to everyday Syrians. The geopolitical landscape in the region is transforming as new alliances are formed and previous ones are challenged, especially concerning Syria’s recovery and relationships with other Arab nations, particularly Qatar.
The Syrian government’s appeal to the United States to lift sanctions highlights the significant challenges the war-torn country faces in rebuilding its economy and society. As Syria navigates a post-Assad landscape, its leaders aim to foster domestic unity and foreign collaboration, with Qatari support playing a key role. Upon engaging with other regional powers, the new administration seeks to establish a government that embodies the aspirations of its citizens and safeguards their rights.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
