The political landscape in Syria is demonstrating significant shifts after President Bashar Assad's ouster, particularly concerning its international alliances. The country's newly appointed interim foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, highlighted these changes at the World Government Summit held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Al-Shibani remarked on the persistent impact of Russia and Iran's support for Assad, describing it as an 'open wound' for Syrians grappling with the aftermath of a lengthy civil war.
Despite acknowledging certain 'positive' developments from both Tehran and Moscow, al-Shibani avoided delving into specifics. However, he articulated the current leadership's aspiration to foster better relations with Western nations and urged the lifting of sanctions crippling Syria's economy. 'Syria has regained its freedom and dignity,' al-Shibani emphasized, marking this phase as a pivotal moment for peace and reconstruction after a decade and a half of conflict.
Al-Shibani's involvement at the summit underscores the interim government's efforts to engage with the global community following the ouster of Assad in December. Notably, Qatar and Turkey, which once supported the rebellion against Assad, are now recalibrating their relations with the UAE, highlighting a complex regional dynamic.
After reopening its embassy in Syria in late 2018, the UAE has played a crucial role in reevaluating Assad's place in the Arab world, despite the severe human rights violations attributed to his forces. Interestingly, Assad was later discovered to be residing in Russia, under the protection of President Vladimir Putin, hinting at the intricate geopolitical entanglements yet to be unraveled.
Al-Shibani stressed the need to address the aftermath of economic sanctions imposed by the U.S. and the European Union. These sanctions have exacerbated Syria's economic woes, which include a staggering poverty rate of 90% and a GDP less than half of its pre-war value. Lifting these sanctions, according to al-Shibani, is a natural step forward.
Originating from the northeastern al-Hasakah governorate, al-Shibani has emerged relatively recently in the international political arena. His involvement in the 2011 protests, aligned with the Arab Spring, adds a layer to his political repertoire. During the civil war, he was active in Idlib province, associated with the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. His appointment as Syria's interim foreign minister came after a swift uprising ended the Assad family's prolonged rule.
The interim government faces scrutiny over its historical connections to militant groups, which raises apprehensions in Western circles. Nonetheless, al-Shibani on Wednesday asserted that the current administration has resolved issues around security and the Captagon drug trade, previously a crucial source of revenue for Assad’s regime. This resolution has notably eased tensions with neighboring Jordan.
However, navigating the fraught relationship with Russia and Iran remains a priority. Russian interests lie in maintaining military bases along the Mediterranean, while Iran's strategic investments involve using Syria as a conduit for arming allied militias, including Hezbollah. Al-Shibani acknowledges the Syrian populace's grievances with these nations, underscoring the need for a reconciliatory path that assures the populace of a healthy bilateral engagement in the future.
As Syria tentatively steps into a new era, the challenges of re-establishing diplomatic ties while addressing domestic and international concerns are a testament to the intricate balance the interim government must achieve to secure a peaceful and prosperous future for its people.
