Syrian and Lebanese leaders meet in Doha to strengthen bilateral ties

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in Doha on Saturday, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation and developing relations between their countries. The meeting, reported by the Lebanese National News Agency, occurred as both leaders attended the opening of the 23rd Doha Forum, a major global conference themed “Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress.”

Context of the Doha Forum Gathering

The high-level encounter took place within the framework of the two-day international forum, which convenes global leaders, diplomats, and influential figures. Notable attendees this year include Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and former Microsoft CEO Bill Gates. The event, with Anadolu Agency as its global communications partner, builds on last year's forum which attracted over 5,000 participants.

Significance Amid Regional Re-engagement

The talks between the Syrian and Lebanese leaders mark a notable step in re-engaging bilateral channels following significant political changes in Syria. President Sharaa leads the transitional administration that assumed power after the fall of the long-standing Assad regime, while Lebanon continues to navigate its own complex political and economic crises. Such meetings on neutral diplomatic ground signal a mutual intent to address shared challenges and rebuild institutional ties.

Broader Diplomatic Activity at the Forum

The Doha Forum serves as a key platform for such sideline diplomacy, facilitating dialogue on regional stability and post-conflict cooperation. The Sharaa-Salam meeting underscores the forum's role in enabling direct communication between neighboring states with intertwined histories and interests. As both nations look toward recovery and reconstruction, enhanced coordination on issues like border security, trade, and refugee returns is likely a central focus of their discussions.