UAE and Syrian Foreign Ministers Discuss Bilateral Relations and Syrian Developments
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Abu Dhabi, Jan 6 (NationPress) Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), welcomed Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani on Monday to discuss bilateral relations and recent developments in Syria.
The two officials explored avenues to strengthen their robust fraternal ties in areas of shared interest, reviewed the current situation in Syria as well as the regional landscape, and tackled various mutual concerns, according to a statement from the UAE Foreign Ministry.
Sheikh Abdullah reiterated the UAE's unwavering commitment to supporting Syria's sovereignty and independence over its entire territory, expressing the nation's solidarity with the Syrian populace and backing all regional and international initiatives aimed at achieving their aspirations for security, peace, stability, and a dignified existence.
After the discussions, Syria's interim Foreign Ministry shared four images on social media platform X, showcasing al-Shibani engaging in talks and shaking hands with Sheikh Abdullah.
Senior officials from both nations, including the defence ministers, were present during the meeting, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
This visit forms part of al-Shibani's broader regional tour focused on enhancing Syria's stability, security, and economic recovery.
Asaad Hassan al-Shibani reiterated Syria's intention to establish positive foreign relations throughout the region.
In a series of posts on social media, al-Shibani stressed that the new Syrian administration will implement foreign policies that significantly differ from those of the previous regime.
Following discussions with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, as well as Minister of State at the Foreign Ministry Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi in Doha, which al-Shibani characterized as comprehensive, he highlighted that strategic issues were addressed and a roadmap for Syria's reconstruction and citizen empowerment was proposed. "We aim to create a Syrian government that represents all societal segments," he stated.
He commended Qatar's significant role in assisting Syrians during the recent unrest and in the current phase of reconstruction, labeling the Gulf state as a strategic partner.
Al-Shibani also expressed Damascus's eagerness to repair relationships with the Arab and international community, moving away from what he termed the old regime's policies, and emphasized Syria's pursuit of peaceful and cooperative relations that uphold the principles of justice, freedom, and equality for all citizens.
Furthermore, the minister called on the United States to lift sanctions against the Syrian people, asserting that such measures hinder the establishment of a "new Syria."
