Syria's Al-Sharaa meets IMF chief ahead of historic White House visit

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with International Monetary Fund (IMF) head Kristalina Georgieva on Sunday, exploring frameworks for future collaboration to support Syria's economic development and reform agenda. The high-level discussion at the IMF headquarters in Washington signals a significant step for Damascus as it seeks international financial support.

A Landmark Visit to Washington

The meeting was also attended by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani. President al-Sharaa's travel to the United States capital follows his participation at the COP30 climate summit in Brazil. His itinerary includes a highly anticipated meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, described by the White House as a "historic" engagement.

Focus on Sanctions Relief and Bilateral Ties

The upcoming Trump-Sharaa summit is expected to center on bilateral relations and regional issues, with a primary focus on the recent repeal of U.S. sanctions on Syria, including the Caesar Act. The U.S. State Department has previously voiced its support for Congress's decision to lift these economic restrictions, a move closely watched by allies in the region, including Türkiye.

A First in Syrian-U.S. Diplomacy

This official visit is unprecedented, being the first time a Syrian president has traveled to the United States since Syria gained its independence. The diplomatic movement underscores a potential shift in bilateral relations and could have significant implications for the economic and political landscape of the region.