US Envoy Barrack says progress in Syria “remarkable”, next phase promising
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Thomas Barrack, U.S. Special Envoy to Syria, on Sunday said that Syria has witnessed “remarkable” developments in recent months, describing the coming phase as promising and full of opportunities to enhance stability and deliver broad gains for Syrians.
In a post on X, Barrack said that the meeting between Syria’s Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa and U.S. President Donald Trump in Saudi Arabia marked a turning point, noting that the decision to lift sanctions aimed to “give Syria a chance at greatness.”
He described the step as bold and hopeful for both Syria and the wider region, adding that current developments could pave the way for significant progress and long-term stability.
Barrack added that Syria is emerging as a model for a new regional alignment based on diplomacy and integration, advancing under the leadership of President al-Sharaa and with diplomatic efforts led by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani.
His remarks came after a meeting with President al-Sharaa at the People’s Palace in Damascus, attended by the foreign minister. Discussions focused on developments in Syria and the region, prospects for economic cooperation between Damascus and Washington, and a number of shared issues.
In May 2025, al-Sharaa met Trump in Riyadh in the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, with the participation of the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the United States. Talks centered on sanctions, support for recovery and reconstruction, counterterrorism cooperation, and enhancing regional stability.