In his first interview as president of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa outlined his vision for rebuilding the nation and promised a transition to democracy with upcoming presidential elections. He criticized the US military presence as “illegal,” while expressing openness to dialogue with Russia. His comments suggest a potential shift in Syria’s geopolitical orientations, yet he provided little clarity on the specific structure of governance he aims to implement.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the newly appointed president of Syria, gave his first interview to The Economist, discussing his plans for the country following his inauguration on January 29. In his message, he emphasized a commitment to steer Syria towards democracy and announced a timetable for presidential elections. Formerly known as Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, a past al-Qaeda leader, al-Sharaa’s rise has sparked hopes of a strategic realignment away from Iranian and Russian influence towards the West.
Despite these aspirations, al-Sharaa expressed criticism toward the United States, labeling its military presence in Syria as “illegal.” He indicated openness to negotiations regarding the presence of Russian military bases in Syria while cautioning Israel about its actions in the region after the Assad regime’s fall, stating it could lead to significant future issues.
The interview marks the first public statement from al-Sharaa as Syria’s president, a significant moment considering the country’s complex political landscape marked by years of civil war and external interventions. His former association with al-Qaeda raises questions about his governance style and intentions. The geopolitical implications of his presidency suggest either continuity or change in Syria’s foreign relations, especially concerning Western and neighboring powers. His administration’s approach to democracy and rebuilding the nation is closely monitored by internal and external stakeholders.
Al-Sharaa’s initial assertions highlight a duality in his presidency: a potential shift towards democratic governance juxtaposed against traditional alliances and regional dynamics. His comments suggest a complex navigation of Syria’s recovery, balancing between reclaiming national sovereignty and addressing external influences, particularly from the US and Israel. The success of his presidency may hinge on his ability to provide concrete details on governance while fostering international cooperation for Syria’s reconstruction and stability.
Original Source: www.economist.com
