The Qatar News Agency reported that Syrian Foreign and Expatriates Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani held a phone call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday. The two discussed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen cooperation between Syria and the United States. Al-Shaibani welcomed the US decision to lift sanctions on Syria during their conversation. He stressed the need for continued coordination to complete executive and technical measures.
Those measures aim to ensure the sanctions relief produces a practical impact on Syria’s economic and banking sectors according to the agency. The two sides stressed the importance of continued support for Syria’s stability and economic growth. The call also addressed regional developments and Syria’s role in backing stability on the political and economic fronts. Officials emphasized continued consultation on issues of mutual interest the Qatar News Agency added.
A statement from the United States Department of State attributed to spokesman Tommy Pigott said Rubio spoke with al-Shaibani to discuss regional security issues. The secretary stressed the importance of ongoing integration of all of Syria’s minority groups. Rubio lauded Syria’s progress with the International Atomic Energy Agency. The department said the conversation focused on increasing cooperation between the two countries.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry issued a parallel account of the discussion that aligned with several points raised in the US statement. It noted al-Shaibani expressed appreciation for US steps related to sanctions relief. The ministry said both sides agreed on the value of supporting Syria’s path toward stability and economic recovery. Coordination on regional matters formed a key element of their exchange.
Qatar News Agency figures indicate the discussion reflects heightened diplomatic activity between Damascus and Washington in recent months. The US State Department release similarly highlighted security cooperation as a priority area. Both accounts avoided detailing specific outcomes beyond the listed topics of conversation.
ع