Greece’s Foreign Minister, Giorgos Gerapetritis, visited Damascus to meet Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, highlighting growing diplomatic engagement with post-Assad Syria. This meeting follows a series of visits from other European nations who are also reconsidering their positions on sanctions and diplomatic ties with the country. The changing landscape reflects a desire for stabilization and support in the region.
On Sunday, Greece’s Foreign Minister, Giorgos Gerapetritis, visited Damascus to meet Syrian Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. This meeting signals a deepening interest from various countries in establishing diplomatic relations with a post-Assad Syria, as indicated by the Syrian presidency’s announcement on social media. The Syrian officials welcomed the high-level Greek delegation amid increased diplomatic outreach to the region from nations like Germany, France, Italy, and Spain.
Greece had shuttered its embassy in Syria in July 2012, shortly after the Syrian war commenced, but reopened it in June 2021 despite Assad still being in power. Athens has actively sought to restore relations with Damascus at a time when many other countries hesitated to do so, especially given ongoing hostilities in the region.
The recent developments include Assad’s regime being ousted last December by a coalition of insurgents, including those led by al-Sharaa’s group. The rebels are currently overseeing a transitional governance phase in Syria. Additionally, EU foreign ministers have recently expressed a consensus on beginning the gradual lifting of sanctions that have impacted various sectors, notably energy, essential for Syria’s recovery.
The context of this meeting relates to the changing political landscape in Syria following years of civil war. Countries previously hesitant to engage with the Assad regime are now exploring new diplomatic avenues with Syria’s interim leadership as part of a broader shift towards normalization. This aligns with an emerging consensus among EU nations regarding the easing of sanctions imposed on Syria, indicating a potential shift in international diplomacy. Furthermore, the events since last year’s regime change highlight the fractured power dynamics in Syria, with multiple factions vying for control while many other states reassess their diplomatic positions toward the war-torn nation. The complexities of Syria’s transition period influence the strategic interests of various foreign governments, prompting renewed dialogue.
The meeting between Greece’s FM and Syria’s interim president marks a significant step towards improved relations, emphasizing a trend of diplomatic normalization with Syria’s new leadership. With Greece reopening its embassy and engaging in talks while others follow suit, it showcases a shifting attitude towards rebuilding ties in the region. The EU’s moves to ease sanctions signal a pivotal change in response to evolving governance in Syria and the significant need for international support in its rebuilding efforts.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
