Syria’s Foreign Minister Appeals to US for Sanctions Relief During Doha Visit
Syria’s foreign minister Asaad al-Shibani urged the United States to lift sanctions during his visit to Qatar, stating they hinder recovery efforts. He outlined a reconstruction roadmap aimed at restoring Syria’s international relations and civil rights. His visit included meetings with senior Qatari officials and follows his first foreign engagements with Saudi Arabia, marking a significant phase in Syria’s diplomatic outreach after the ousting of Assad.
During a visit to Qatar, Syria’s newly appointed foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, emphasized the detrimental impact of U.S. sanctions on Syria’s post-conflict recovery. He urged Washington to remove these sanctions, stating, “These sanctions constitute a barrier and an obstacle to the rapid recovery and development of the Syrian people who await services and partnerships from other countries.” This plea came after a meeting with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who also holds the foreign minister position.
Shibani’s visit, which marks his second regional trip since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad, included discussions with senior Qatari officials and aims to establish Qatar as a key partner in Syria’s anticipated reconstruction efforts. The delegation also included Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and intelligence chief Anas Khattab. Qatari officials highlighted that Shibani presented a comprehensive plan to improve Syria’s political and social climate.
As part of this roadmap, Shibani outlined initiatives to restore Syria’s relationships with Arab nations and the global community, advocating for the fundamental civil rights of the Syrian people. He will continue his diplomatic engagements with forthcoming visits to the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, following an earlier meeting with Saudi officials to strategize support for Syria’s political transition.
The backdrop to this diplomatic engagement is the prolonged conflict in Syria, which has left the country in a state of devastation. The United States has imposed sanctions on Syria in response to the government’s conduct during the civil war, which have been claimed to hinder the nation’s recovery efforts. As the new Syrian administration seeks to re-establish its political standing and rebuild the nation, the removal of sanctions has become a central point of negotiation, particularly given Qatar’s previous reluctance to normalize relations with Assad’s regime. Shibani’s appointment represents a potential shift in Syria’s foreign relations as the new government advocates for partnerships with neighboring countries and beyond.
In summary, Syria’s foreign minister Asaad al-Shibani has called upon the United States to lift sanctions that are impeding the nation’s recovery. He presented a strategic vision for Syria’s future during meetings with Qatari officials, seeking to solidify regional partnerships and restore national dignity. As diplomatic efforts continue with visits to other Middle Eastern nations, the focus remains on rebuilding Syria and securing civil rights for its citizens while navigating the complexities of international relations post-conflict.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
