Gulf Delegation Visits Syria in Historic First Post-Assad Era

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – On Monday, a high-level Gulf delegation visited Damascus for the first time since the fall of the ousted Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad.

The delegation, led by Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya in his capacity as chair of the current session of the GCC Ministerial Council, included the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Al-Budaiwi.

Syria’s new leadership, represented by Ahmad al-Sharaa, HTS leader, and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, warmly received the delegation.

Key Statements and Outcomes

In a joint press conference, the following points were highlighted:

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani:

Thanked the Gulf states for their support, describing the visit as a sign of new hope for Syria’s reintegration into the Arab world.

Urged Gulf states to reopen their embassies in Damascus to strengthen bilateral relations.

Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya:

Emphasized the visit as an official mandate from GCC member states to affirm their commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Called on the international community to reassess sanctions imposed on Syria, highlighting their impact on the Syrian people.

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi:

Stressed the visit’s purpose as a message of political, economic, and developmental support for Syria.

Reaffirmed the GCC’s stance against Israeli settlement activities in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights.

Significance of the Visit

This visit marks a major step toward restoring Syria’s relations with the Gulf and Arab states after years of conflict. It signals the GCC’s intent to actively support Syria’s sovereignty and stability, while also addressing critical political and economic issues facing the country.

The visit is expected to pave the way for further diplomatic engagements and closer ties between Syria and its Arab neighbors.