Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani announced on Monday that Syria’s new administration is focused on strengthening ties with Gulf countries. Speaking at a joint press conference in Damascus alongside Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi, Al-Shibani outlined Syria’s intent to reintegrate into the Arab world and improve relations with the Gulf region.

Al-Shibani highlighted the necessity of lifting international sanctions on Syria to support the country’s economic recovery. He emphasized that the removal of sanctions would allow for greater cooperation with Arab nations, providing a path to revitalizing Syria’s economy. The Foreign Minister also urged Gulf states to reopen their embassies in Damascus, signaling a return to normal diplomatic relations.

“Our aim is to restore Syria’s position within the Arab world,” Al-Shibani said. “Lifting sanctions will enable us to work together with our Arab brothers to rebuild Syria and revive its economy.”

For his part, Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya expressed his country’s full support for Syria, reaffirming that the Gulf states respect Syria’s sovereignty and are committed to supporting its stability and recovery.

“We reject any violations of Syria’s sovereignty, and we are committed to supporting the Syrian people,” Al-Yahya said.

During the press conference, the ministers discussed strategies for Syria’s economic recovery, particularly in light of the challenges caused by years of conflict. Al-Yahya reiterated the Gulf states' support for lifting sanctions on Syria, stressing that Syria’s security is essential for the stability of the region.

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi reinforced the council’s commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He stressed that the GCC has long prioritized the situation in Syria and supports the country’s political transition and territorial unity.

“We stand in solidarity with Syria and its people, and we support the country’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity,” Al-Budaiwi said. He also condemned foreign intervention in Syria, including Israel’s occupation of the Golan Heights.

“The Golan Heights is Syrian land under occupation, and we reject Israel’s settlement expansion in the area,” he added.

The Gulf delegation, led by Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya, was welcomed by Syrian officials, including Ahmad Al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s new administration, and Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani.