Syrian Foreign Minister Asad al-Shaibani has concluded an official visit to Islamabad, marking a significant diplomatic milestone between the two nations. This visit is widely viewed as the beginning of a new chapter in bilateral relations following the transition of power in Syria in December 2024, which saw the departure of Bashar al-Assad and the inauguration of a new administration under President Ahmed al-Sharan.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, this trip represents the first visit by a Syrian foreign minister to Pakistan since 2007. During his stay, Asad al-Shaibani held high-level discussions with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for Syria's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The two sides explored avenues for expanding cooperation in defense, trade, investment, and education. Furthermore, the Pakistani leadership reiterated its support for Syria's position regarding the Golan Heights.
The diplomatic engagement occurred against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions. A key topic of discussion was the August 18 Israeli airstrike on the Abu al-Duhur airbase in Idlib. According to Syrian state media, the attack damaged the base's runway and storage facilities, though no casualties were reported. Islamabad condemned the strike as a violation of international law, stating that such actions by Israel pose a threat to regional stability.
Pakistan’s renewed engagement with Syria reflects a broader recalibration of its foreign policy in the Middle East. In his remarks, Asad al-Shaibani welcomed the "Mecca Joint Defense Pact" signed between Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, praising Islamabad’s efforts to de-escalate regional tensions. As Syria continues its post-conflict reconstruction, Pakistan is simultaneously seeking to strengthen its strategic and political footprint in the region.
