Syrian president meets Qatar emir in Doha on Gulf tour

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha on Wednesday to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments, according to a statement from the Syrian Presidency. The two leaders “emphasized the importance of bilateral relations and their development in various fields, particularly economic and investment sectors, and enhancing trade connectivity.” The meeting also covered “regional and international developments and ways of coordination to preserve the security and stability of the region.”

Solidarity with Arab states

Sharaa reaffirmed “Syria’s solidarity with Qatar and Arab countries that have been subjected to Iranian attacks,” the statement said. The talks were attended by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, along with several officials from both countries. The discussions come amid heightened regional tensions following the US-Israeli war on Iran and Iranian retaliatory strikes on US assets across the Middle East.

Gulf tour

Qatar is the second stop in Sharaa’s current Gulf tour, which began Tuesday in Saudi Arabia, where he held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.