Ministers from Syria’s transitional government have called on the United States to lift sanctions on Damascus during their first official visit to Qatar since the overthrow of President Bashar Al Assad.
In a statement on Monday, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani met with Syria’s interim foreign minister Asaad Al Shaibani, defense minister Murhaf Abu Qasra, and the new intelligence chief Anas Khattab.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasized Qatar’s support for Syria’s “unity, sovereignty, and independence” during the talks, reflecting Doha’s continued engagement with the new Syrian leadership.
The visit marks a significant moment in the region’s shifting political landscape. Unlike other Arab nations, Qatar never restored ties with the Assad regime, which was ousted following an 11-day rebel advance that culminated in the capture of Damascus in December.
The discussions also involved Qatar’s Minister of State Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Khulaifi. Following the meetings, Shaibani reiterated his government’s call for the removal of U.S. sanctions, describing them as a “barrier and an obstacle to rapid recovery.” Speaking to local media, he said, “We renewed our demand for the United States to lift these sanctions to facilitate Syria’s rebuilding efforts.”
Qatar has previously echoed similar sentiments, urging the international community to reconsider the economic restrictions. However, global powers remain cautious, waiting to assess the new government’s governance approach before altering their positions.
Shaibani also highlighted plans for closer regional cooperation, expressing confidence in fostering “very good relations” with neighboring states—a stark contrast to the Assad government’s strained ties in the region.
Khulaifi noted that Syria’s transitional leadership presented “a clear roadmap for the country’s future,” detailing steps for governance, economic recovery, and stability.
The conflict in Syria began in 2011 when Assad’s regime violently suppressed pro-democracy protests, escalating into a protracted, multi-faceted war. Qatar was a prominent supporter of the armed rebellion during the conflict.
In a social media post last week, Shaibani announced his planned visits to Qatar, the UAE, and Jordan, expressing hope that the trips would contribute to “stability, security, economic recovery, and building distinguished partnerships.”
Qatar, which reopened its embassy in Damascus following Assad’s ouster, continues to play a pivotal role in the region, hosting the U.S.’s largest military base and acting as a key mediator in Middle Eastern affairs.
The transitional government’s visit signals a new chapter in Syria-Qatar relations as regional powers navigate the post-Assad era.
