Syrian FM calls Türkiye 'key partner' in reconstruction

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani described Türkiye as a “key partner” in Syria’s reconstruction during his official visit to Islamabad on Thursday, emphasizing the strategic importance of bilateral ties as Damascus navigates new regional alliances and considers its position on the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement signed earlier this month by Ankara, Riyadh, and Islamabad.

Regional alliances and ties with Ankara

Addressing the defense pact, Al-Shaibani told local media on Thursday that Damascus was carefully evaluating its position before committing to any alliance. "We have not yet made a decision on whether to join this alliance," he said, adding that Syria would decide at a later stage while highlighting the more than 1,000-kilometer border and deep historical ties that bind Syria and Türkiye.

Messages to Tehran and Tel Aviv

On relations with Iran, Al-Shaibani maintained that Tehran must first acknowledge what it has done to the Syrian people before any diplomatic contact could resume, though he praised Pakistan’s ongoing role in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran. Regarding Israel, the foreign minister stated it remained “too early” to discuss any strategic agreement while Israeli attacks continue, stressing that Damascus’ immediate priority is ending hostilities.

"Syria is a sovereign state," Al-Shaibani said, emphasizing that Israel should not attempt to dictate Damascus’ alliances or partnerships as the new government focuses on reconstruction and economic cooperation. He outlined a foreign policy pivot centered on rebuilding infrastructure and strengthening ties with regional and international partners, marking a departure from the isolation of the previous era.

Pakistan diplomatic upgrade

Al-Shaibani described his visit to Pakistan as “successful,” detailing agreements to reestablish a joint ministerial commission, maintain direct flights between the capitals, establish a business council, and organize an investment forum to boost economic cooperation. Noting that both nations share similar views on elevating bilateral relations, he announced that Syria would upgrade its diplomatic representation in Islamabad to the ambassadorial level.

On regional security, Al-Shaibani addressed tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, calling on both sides to resolve their disputes through dialogue and diplomatic channels. "We call on Afghanistan not to allow any threat or terrorist attack from its territory against neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan," he said, urging Kabul to prevent its soil from being used against regional stability.