Al-Shaibani Calls for an End to Violations by Israel, Lifting of Sanctions, and Commitment to Syria’s Unity

Asaad Al-Shaibani, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, reiterated on Monday the call for an end to Israel’s aggression against Syrian territory, the lifting of international sanctions imposed on Syria, and affirmed the country’s commitment to its unity. This statement was made during a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Al-Safadi, following their meeting in Ankara, as reported by the Turkish agency Anatolia.

Al-Shaibani congratulated the Turkish government and its people on the decision made by the PKK terrorist organization to disband and lay down its arms, stating that this step marks a significant milestone not just for Turkey’s internal security but for the stability of the entire region. He emphasized that the success of this effort is crucial to the goals they are pursuing today, which include restoring security, preserving sovereignty, and ending the repeated violence in the region.

The foreign minister reaffirmed Syria’s commitment to enhancing military and security coordination with both Turkey and Jordan, asserting that this partnership is essential. He stated, “We are intensifying cooperation to counter cross-border threats, monitor the movements of armed groups, and prevent the infiltration of extremists into our shared territory.”

He emphasized that Syria’s borders continue to experience constant violations due to Israeli actions, declaring these incidents as systematic violations of international law that pose significant provocations threatening to escalate tensions in the region.

Al-Shaibani called on the international community to hold Israel accountable and to adhere to international law, stressing the necessity for the full implementation of the disengagement agreement from 1974.

He described this agreement as a critical legal framework for restoring calm along the occupied Golan front, insisting that Israel must respect its obligations, cease its aggression, and recognize Syria’s sovereignty. “The territorial integrity of Syria is non-negotiable. Syria is a unified and indivisible state, sovereign over its territory, and will remain so,” Al-Shaibani asserted.

He also mentioned that Syria is in the process of implementing a national agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to incorporate all areas under central authority. He acknowledged the complexities of this process but emphasized its necessity, confirming that the rights of Kurdish citizens are guaranteed equally alongside those of other Syrian citizens.

He warned that delays in implementing this agreement would prolong chaos, invite foreign interference, and fuel separatism. “Our goal is not domination, but unification. The future belongs to one unified Syria,” he stated.

Al-Shaibani added, “Syria will not return to war, and we will employ all necessary legal and security measures to maintain civil peace and ensure that past tragedies are not repeated.”

He outlined the establishment of a new national political stage through the formation of a parliament that reflects the diversity of the Syrian people. He stressed that this step is pivotal for restoring legitimate and representative governance.

At the diplomatic level, he noted the initiation of dialogue and cooperation with the Turkish Foreign Ministry to exchange experiences and build long-term institutional trust.

In this context, Al-Shaibani announced practical steps toward opening the Syrian Arab Republic’s embassy in Ankara, as well as a new embassy in Gaziantep and a consulate in Istanbul.

He explained that coordination with Turkish authorities aims to facilitate access to services for Syrians living in Turkey, ensuring their freedom of movement and allowing them to return to their lives with dignity and safety.

In the economic field, Al-Shaibani stated that the ministries of energy and transport are working alongside their Turkish counterparts to finalize a series of agreements aimed at rebuilding infrastructure, enhancing mobility, and stimulating economic recovery in essential sectors. “These agreements will benefit both Syria and Turkey, paving the way for significant development breakthroughs in the region,” he emphasized.

Regarding Jordan, Al-Shaibani mentioned that he and Ayman Al-Safadi agreed to hold a Government Summit in Damascus soon. He spoke the ongoing sanctions against Syria, which were originally enacted during the previous regime and were expected to cease following its downfall.

Al-Shaibani asserted that these sanctions no longer serve any legitimate political purpose, having become a punitive measure against the Syrian people. They hinder investments, restrict the import of goods, and paralyze the country’s economy.

Amal Farhat.

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