Syria’s FM seeks further reassurance from Russia, Iran at World Government Summit
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al Shibani delivers a speech during the 55th annual World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, on January 22, 2025.
Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani addressed the World Government Summit 2025 in Dubai, expressing that while positive messages from Russia and Iran have been received, Syria seeks further reassurance from its former allies.
Details
- Shibani noted that although there have been positive signals from Russia and Iran, Syria wants these messages to translate into clear policies that will reassure the Syrian people.
- He acknowledged the respect for Syria’s sovereignty but also pointed out the lingering wounds and pain caused by these two countries during Syria’s war.
- After Syria’s civil war began in 2011, Russia and Iran played a pivotal role in supporting Bashar al-Assad’s government militarily. However, Assad was overthrown in 2024 by a rebel offensive, and the rebels now lead a transitional government. Assad has since fled to Moscow.
- Russia aims to maintain its military presence in Syria, with key bases such as the Tartus naval base and Hmeimim air base under its control. Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov met with Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus last month.
Iran, too, is seeking to secure its influence in Syria, with reports in December indicating that Tehran has established direct communication with Syria’s new leadership.
