Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani is in Qatar as part of a crucial trip aimed at securing support for his country’s new government following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. His visit comes amid efforts to strengthen regional ties and economic recovery for Syria.

Asaad al-Shaibani, accompanied by Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and intelligence chief Anas Khattab, officially arrived in Qatar, where discussions are centered on rebuilding Syria and lifting economic sanctions imposed primarily by the U.S. The Qatari Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, reiterated Qatar's commitment to Syria's unity and sovereignty during their meetings (Voice of America).

In conjunction with his diplomatic efforts, al-Shaibani emphasized the need for the U.S. to lift its sanctions, which he termed as "a barrier and an obstacle to the rapid recovery" of Syria. He voiced this message during discussions with Qatar's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, highlighting that the new Syrian government seeks fostering good relationships within the Middle East, in stark contrast to the strained ties of the past under Assad's administration.

This diplomatic outreach follows Qatar’s recent re-engagement with Syria, having reopened its embassy in Damascus, a significant shift as many other Arab nations have been hesitant to recognize the new administration post-Assad. Al Jazeera reported that Shaibani would also be making subsequent visits to the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, aiming to bolster economic and security partnerships.

During the ongoing discussions, al-Shaibani outlined a vision for Syria's rapid recovery. He expressed optimism that the transitional government holds a clear roadmap for the nation's future while reiterating the call for immediate action on sanctions. "We are eager for these visits to contribute to supporting stability and security," he stated while reinforcing the need for distinguished partnerships across the region.

This visit marks a pivotal moment for Syria’s transitional authorities as they seek international recognition and support in their bid to rebuild the war-torn nation.