Today's Edition
DUBAI (WAM)
Asaad Al-Shibani, Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Syrian transitional government, confirmed that the new administration rejects exclusion and quotas, emphasising that government formation will be grounded in merit and competence rather than religious background.
Speaking at the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025 in Dubai, Al-Shibani reassured the Syrian people saying, “We are committed to representing the Syrian people of all sects.”
He added, “We have overcome the greatest challenge – the previous regime, which stripped the people of their freedom and dignity. As we enter the phase of peace and reconstruction, challenges remain, but they bring happiness as they are aimed at serving our people.”
While rebuilding Syria’s state institutions, including the military, will take time, Al-Shibani noted that life returned to normal immediately after the fall of the regime, with markets, universities, and workplaces reopening.
Al-Shibani stated that Syria’s case will serve as an inspiring example to be taught in universities, underscoring that the current government embraces Syria’s diversity and rejects quotas or exclusion.
He added, “We do not recognise the term ‘minorities’ in forming the new government which will take place on March 1. Competence, not religious affiliations, determines positions”.
Al-Shibani discussed the new Syrian government, emphasising that the new government will reflect Syria's diversity.
Addressing concerns about the political process, he said, “There are no uncertainties. The Syrian people are informed, capable, and central to this process. The change took place in just 11 days, with complete participation from the people. Unlike past transitions, this one did not result in displacement or asylum.”
He emphasised that Syrians have coexisted in harmony for generations, united in their march against the past regime. Now the law and constitution will apply to everyone.
He stressed the careful approach the government has taken over the past two months, stating that learning from past mistakes is key to success. The most significant achievement, he said, is avoiding sectarian or civil conflict after the political change.
He also noted that the Syrian people are finally experiencing freedom and dignity, and for the first time, they feel a sense of belonging.
Al-Shibani addressed the political and economic challenges the transitional government faces. “We inherited strained relations with our Neighbors and the international community, and Syria was perceived as a threat. Since assuming responsibility on December 8, we have made sure to restore our relationships regionally and internationally.”
He outlined the transitional government’s efforts in rebuilding ties with the Gulf and neighbouring countries, especially Jordan, which faced significant security breaches due to repeated border violations, including the smuggling of Captagon from the former Syrian regime.
He stated that Syria cannot live safely without strong ties with Jordan, noting the current positive relationship and planned economic and security partnerships to ensure border security.
He also expressed Syria’s respect and friendship for Iraq and announced plans to visit Baghdad soon after receiving an official invitation.
Al-Shibani addressed Syria's relations with Russia and Iran, emphasising that any partnership grounded in mutual respect and non-interference in domestic affairs will be honoured.
He underscored the necessity of rectifying the legacy of past engagements and ensuring that the Syrian people feel valued in these relationships. While acknowledging the positive messages received from both nations, he conveyed a desire for these sentiments to be translated into a clear and transparent policy that fosters reassurances among the Syrian people.
At the end of the session, Al-Shibani vowed that “a year from now, Syria will be able to position itself clearly on the global stage. In four years, we will either be here or in Damascus, discussing the significant achievements of the Syrian people.”
