Significant Diplomatic Encounter

During his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, President Donald Trump held a critical meeting with interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. This meeting marks the first direct interaction between U.S. and Syrian heads of state since 2000.

Key Participants

The discussion included prominent figures such as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who joined the conversation via phone, according to a report from the White House.

Opportunities for Syria

Trump emphasized to Sharaa the unique chance to make historical changes in Syria, particularly following the lifting of U.S. sanctions. This outlook comes as Sharaa, who assumed power in December after a coalition removed former President Bashar al-Assad, faces crucial challenges ahead.

Acknowledgment of History

As noted, this meeting was pivotal, recalling President Bill Clinton’s engagement with Hafez al-Assad, Bashar’s father, in Geneva. The United States has classified Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism since 1979, adding further complexity to diplomatic relations.

Challenges and Goals

In a notable shift, Trump also encouraged Sharaa to seek normalization of relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords. Additionally, he outlined several expectations including:

• Excluding foreign terrorists from Syria, including Palestinian factions.
• Preventing the resurgence of ISIS in the region.
• Taking responsibility for ISIS detention centers in northeastern Syria.

Sharaa’s Response

In response, Sharaa expressed gratitude for the meeting and acknowledged the favorable conditions stemming from Iran’s reduced presence in Syria. He emphasized shared U.S.-Syrian interests in fighting terrorism and eliminating chemical weapon threats.

Future Prospects

Sharaa concluded the discussion by expressing hopes for Syria to become a vital hub for trade between the East and West. He extended an invitation to American companies to invest in the country’s oil and gas sectors, highlighting opportunities for economic collaboration amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, including those related to the Russia-Ukraine war and the conflict in Gaza.