Syria’s President Ahmad al-Sharaa visited the UAE for the first time, where he met President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The leaders discussed mutual interests and regional developments following the fall of Bashar Assad. The UAE, cautious about Islamist leadership, has historically maintained a measured response to the Syrian government, amidst ongoing challenges posed by Israel’s military actions.
Syria’s President Ahmad al-Sharaa undertook his inaugural visit to the United Arab Emirates on Sunday. This meeting comes four months following the swift removal of former President Bashar Assad, amid cautious optimism from UAE leaders regarding the new Syrian administration. The Emirates News Agency reported that President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his best wishes for Sharaa’s leadership, emphasizing the Syrian people’s aspirations for growth, security, and stability.
During their discussions, the two leaders addressed various issues pertinent to both nations, along with regional and international developments. The UAE severed ties with Assad’s government following the violent repression of protests in 2011, which ultimately led to civil unrest. However, the UAE was a pioneer in restoring relations, reopening its embassy in Damascus in December 2018. Notably, Assad had made a prior visit to the UAE in 2022, marking his first engagement with an Arab nation post-conflict.
In contrast to the swift recognition of Syria’s new leadership by other Gulf states, such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar, the UAE has chosen a more measured approach due to its longstanding aversion to Islamist political movements. Al-Sharaa, a former insurgent, now leading the government, is focused on strengthening regional partnerships to rejuvenate the Syrian economy and unify armed factions under one military authority following years of war.
Concurrently, Syria’s administration faces threats from Israel, which has executed airstrikes and deployed troops into a U.N.-monitored boundary zone established by the 1974 ceasefire agreement. Both Syria’s government and U.N. officials assert that Israel is infringing upon this agreement, urging its withdrawal. Israeli authorities, however, maintain that their military presence is necessary for their national security and intend to remain.
With the UAE’s unique position as one of the few Arab nations that has established diplomatic relations with Israel, it may serve as a potential mediator between Syria and Israel moving forward.
In conclusion, President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s visit to the UAE signifies a cautious yet strategic step towards fostering regional relations following a tumultuous leadership change in Syria. The UAE’s measured approach reflects historical concerns regarding Islamist movements while engaging with Syria’s new authorities. As Syria rebuilds and navigates its relationships with neighboring nations, particularly Israel, the UAE could play a crucial role in mediating these complex dynamics amidst ongoing security challenges.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
