Qatari and Syrian defense ministers hold talks on regional developments

The defense ministers of Qatar and Syria held a telephone discussion on Sunday, covering issues of mutual interest and the latest regional and international developments. According to Qatar's state news agency QNA, Minister of Defense Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani spoke with his Syrian counterpart, Murhaf Abu Qasra, in a continuation of diplomatic engagement between Doha and Damascus.

Continuation of High-Level Engagement

This ministerial contact follows a recent high-level meeting between Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa on the sidelines of the Doha Forum 2025 earlier this month. Those talks also focused on regional and international issues of common concern, indicating a sustained effort to strengthen bilateral dialogue. The series of engagements marks a notable shift in Qatar's approach to Syria under its new transitional administration.

Syria's Diplomatic Re-engagement

Syria's government, led by President Sharaa since January, has actively sought to end the international isolation that characterized the former regime of Bashar al-Assad, who fled to Russia following the collapse of his decades-long rule. The transitional administration aims to rebuild ties with Arab, Islamic, and Western nations. Qatar's outreach, which includes both political and now defense channels, represents a significant step in Damascus's reintegration into regional diplomatic circles.

Regional Implications and Türkiye's Perspective

Qatar's engagement with Syria aligns with a broader regional trend of normalization, though each nation's approach varies. As a neighbor and key stakeholder in Syria's stability, Türkiye supports diplomatic initiatives that contribute to a political solution, the country's territorial integrity, and the safe, voluntary return of refugees. Türkiye's own diplomatic efforts in the region continue alongside these developments, with a focus on combating terrorism and establishing conditions for lasting peace and reconstruction in Syria.