Brussels Summit Welcomes First-Ever Syrian Government Representative

Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shibani, will attend the Brussels donor summit on March 17, 2025, marking the first participation of a Syrian government representative. This year’s summit occurs after the ouster of former President Bashar Assad and signals a shift in how the international community engages with Syria’s interim government.

The Brussels summit, scheduled for March 17, 2025, will feature Asaad al-Shibani, Syria’s Foreign Minister, marking the first official attendance of a Syrian government representative at this annual donor conference. This significant development, confirmed by a European official to Reuters, arises amidst growing speculation about Syria’s role in the summit organized by the European Union, aimed at garnering international support for a peaceful transition in Syria.

Initially, it was suggested that interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa might attend the summit, but the European official later clarified that he would not be present. This donor conference is the first since the ousting of former President Bashar Assad in December 2024. Previously, the EU had invited members of Syrian civil society but had refrained from extending invitations to the state itself.

Shibani’s participation therefore represents a salient change in the international community’s engagement strategy regarding Syria’s interim government, signaling a potential shift towards a more inclusive diplomatic approach while addressing the devastating consequences of the ongoing conflict in the country.

In conclusion, the participation of Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani at the upcoming Brussels donor summit represents a historical first for the Syrian government in this context. This development indicates a potential shift in international relations regarding Syria, reflecting a more inclusive approach towards engaging with its interim government following the removal of former President Bashar Assad. The summit’s goal to secure international support for a peaceful transition further emphasizes the need for cooperation in addressing the complex crises facing Syria.

Original Source: www.jpost.com