Syrian issue to dominate talks at Arab Summit in Baghdad – Iraqi analyst
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian issue to feature prominently in the discussions at the 34th Arab Summit, which began today in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, an Iraqi researcher and political analyst said on Saturday.
Atheer al-Shara told North Press that the summit is taking place at a pivotal moment for the Middle East, emphasizing that “Syria is now experiencing a phase of recovery, supported by several Gulf countries—particularly following the meeting between transitional Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and U.S. President Donald Trump in Riyadh.”
Syrian participation marks a significant milestone in the summit. On Friday, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani arrived in Baghdad to represent Syria in the proceedings.
Al-Sharaa explained that “the Syrian delegation, led by al-Shibani, will outline their vision and stance on relations with Arab states—particularly addressing Iraqi concerns over armed factions affiliated with the new Syrian administration.”
He added that the summit’s final communiqué is expected to propose solutions addressing both the Syrian crisis and broader Arab regional issues.
Regarding the lifting of international sanctions on Syria, al-Sharaa cautioned that it is “a complex process that hinges on the Syrian administration’s response to ongoing changes, its handling of external support, and its efforts to end rights violations, particularly those reported in coastal areas.”
The Baghdad summit is being attended by key international and regional figures, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, representatives from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the European Union, and the Prime Minister of Spain.