Syria’s New Foreign Minister Visits UAE Following Assad’s Ouster
Syria’s new Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, visits the UAE for the first time following President Bashar al-Assad’s ousting. Accompanied by key officials, he aims to improve bilateral relations despite local skepticism regarding Islamist influences. This visit follows meetings with Qatar and Saudi Arabia, indicating a strategic diplomatic outreach by Syria’s new leadership amidst regional apprehensions.
Asaad al-Shaibani, Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, commenced his inaugural visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday, following the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces in December. According to the official Syrian news agency SANA, Shaibani arrived alongside Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and Intelligence Chief Anas Khattab, aiming to foster constructive bilateral relations. Accompanying their UAE visit, they previously toured regional allies Qatar and Saudi Arabia, reflecting a strategic outreach by Syria’s new leadership.
This diplomatic engagement occurs in the backdrop of a complex political landscape. The UAE has expressed apprehension regarding the rise of Islamist factions in Syria, indicative of a broader wariness towards political Islam and Turkish influence in the region. Notably, the UAE had previously advocated for restoring ties with Assad prior to his removal, and their stance may signal unresolved tensions as new leadership emerges. Assessing the implications of this visit, UAE presidential advisor Anwar Gargash emphasized concerns regarding the current rulers’ Islamist affiliations, highlighting the significant undertaking faced by Shaibani in cultivating trust within the gulf nations that have historically allied with the anti-Assad sentiment.
The recent political shift in Syria has emerged after years of civil strife that culminated in the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad, who had been in power for over thirteen years. The Islamist-led rebellion that succeeded in seizing control of Damascus has led to a reformation of the Syrian government, with new officials now tasked with navigating international relations that were greatly impacted by the civil war. The UAE, previously supportive of Assad, is now adopting a cautious approach towards the newly established leadership, underscoring the significance of Shaibani’s diplomatic engagements in the region amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
In summary, Asaad al-Shaibani’s visit to the UAE marks a significant phase in Syria’s political realignment following the toppling of Bashar al-Assad. His engagements reflect an intent to rebuild relations amidst skepticism from the UAE regarding the Islamist orientation of the new Syrian rulers. The outcome of such visits will likely influence Syria’s reintegration into the regional political framework, particularly given the UAE’s past support for Assad and its wariness of Islamist governance.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
