Ukraine, Syria discuss security, trade, reopening embassies
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine’s foreign minister, said on Sunday that he held talks with his Syrian counterpart Asaad al‑Shaibani on security, trade, food cooperation and plans to reopen embassies in both capitals.
In a statement following the meeting, Sybiha said the two sides discussed “a range of important areas and initiatives, first and foremost related to security,” stressing that “the security of Europe and the Middle East is interlinked.”
He added that Kyiv and Damascus would continue working together to advance “a lasting peace for our peoples.”
The talks also covered logistics and the development of trade and maritime routes, which Sybiha described as areas with “strong potential” to deepen economic cooperation.
Food security was another key topic. Sybiha said Ukraine was ready to contribute to regional stability through initiatives such as Grain from Ukraine, aimed at supporting countries facing food shortages.
According to the Ukrainian minister, bilateral trade between the two countries has increased ninefold since the signing of a joint communiqué to restore diplomatic relations, with further opportunities for expansion identified during the talks.
Humanitarian and educational cooperation were also discussed, with Sybiha noting that many Syrian students have studied and continue to study in Ukraine, describing this as “a strong foundation” for future collaboration.
The two ministers agreed to reopen embassies in Kyiv and Damascus in the near future, a step Sybiha said would help strengthen the partnership between the two countries.