Syria’s new government appoints foreign minister ‘to rebuild international ties’

Syria’s new authorities have named Asaad Hassan al-Shibani as the country’s foreign minister, tasking him with restoring global relations after the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, state media agency SANA reported on Saturday.

People participate in the 'Liberation Festival', which celebrates the ouster of Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad, at Saadallah al-Jabiri Square in Aleppo, Syria, 21 December 2024.

EPA/BILAL AL HAMMOUD

“This step reflects the Syrian people’s aspirations for international engagement that can bring peace and stability,” an official in the new Damascus administration told Reuters.

Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and Syria’s de facto ruler since December 8, has been meeting with foreign delegations, including a United Nations envoy and American diplomats, according to Reuters. He said Damascus is now “focused on reconstruction and economic development,” emphasizing that he has no interest in opening new conflicts.

In a related development, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Barbara Leaf announced that Washington will no longer offer a reward for al-Jolani’s capture. Since 2017, a $10 million bounty had been in place due to his alleged terrorist activities.

HTS took power in Damascus on December 8, ending Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year rule. Al-Jolani said the new government’s primary goal is to stabilize the country and reintegrate Syria into the international community, with al-Shibani leading those diplomatic efforts.

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Source: PAP