Abdullah bin Zayed Attends International Meeting on Syria in Aqaba
On December 14, 2024, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, participated in an expanded international ministerial meeting focused on the situation in Syria. The meeting took place in Aqaba, Jordan, and was attended by foreign ministers and representatives from various countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States. The gathering aimed to discuss the ongoing developments in Syria following the recent political upheaval, particularly after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad.
Sheikh Abdullah emphasized the importance of a unified international approach to support Syria's sovereignty and the aspirations of its people for security and stability. He highlighted the need for regional and international cooperation to achieve a political settlement in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution No. 2254. The meeting also underscored the support for Geir Pedersen, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, in his efforts to facilitate a political solution that would restore peace and prosperity to the Syrian people.
Turkey Reopens Embassy Amidst Syrian Political Changes
In a significant development, Turkey announced the reopening of its embassy in Damascus after more than a decade of closure, coinciding with the international meeting in Jordan. This move follows the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, marking a pivotal moment in Syria's political landscape. The Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, confirmed that the embassy would officially resume operations, signaling Turkey's support for the new authorities in Syria.
The recent changes in Syria have led to a wave of celebrations among the populace, particularly in Damascus, where businesses have begun to reopen. The new interim Prime Minister, Mohammad al-Bashir, has pledged to uphold the rule of law and ensure the rights of all citizens. However, concerns remain regarding the role of the radical Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which has gained significant power following the regime's fall.
The international community, represented in Aqaba, is now focused on preventing the collapse of Syrian institutions and fostering a credible political process to form a new government. The meeting highlighted the necessity of addressing the humanitarian crisis and the plight of those missing or affected by the Assad regime's brutal tactics during its rule.
