Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to renew diplomatic relations and cooperation with Syria, signaling a significant shift in Ukraine’s foreign policy. This announcement follows a high-level diplomatic visit by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha to Damascus, where discussions were held with Syria’s new administration.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Ukrainian delegation’s visit to Damascus on December 30 marked a pivotal step towards re-establishing ties with Syria. In meetings with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of Syria’s new administration, discussions centered on potential diplomatic and economic cooperation. Following their visit to Syria, the Ukrainian officials traveled to Beirut to engage with Lebanese government officials, with a focus on enhancing trade relations.
President Zelenskyy, in a video statement, emphasized the strategic importance of renewing relations with Syria and expanding cooperation through international organizations. He highlighted the potential for increased trade, particularly with Lebanon, where Ukrainian agricultural exports currently amount to $400 million. Zelenskyy expressed ambitions to double this figure and outlined plans for greater engagement with African nations by 2025.
The Ukrainian president articulated a broader vision of forming new partnerships to bolster both the country’s diplomacy and economy. Zelenskyy instructed Foreign Minister Sybiha to establish specific agreements with African countries, underlining Ukraine’s commitment to diversifying its international alliances.
In a separate statement, Zelenskyy expressed support for stabilizing Syria and announced the launch of the “Grain from Ukraine” program. This initiative aims to collaborate with the Syrian administration and international partners, including Europe and the United States, to enhance stability and trade in the Middle East. Kyiv’s decision to sever ties with Damascus occurred in 2022 when Syria, under the regime of Bashar al-Assad, recognized the independence of Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions. However, the recent diplomatic efforts indicate a potential thaw in relations, with implications for regional peace and economic development.