The US ambassador’s residence in Syria reopened, signaling improved US-Syrian relations. Tom Barrack, the US envoy, met Syrian President al-Sharaa, signing agreements on a major energy project. Though formal embassy operations remain closed, this visit marks a significant diplomatic shift, reflecting the US’s evolving stance towards the new Syrian government.
The US ambassador’s residence in Damascus, long closed, officially reopened on Thursday, marking a noteworthy moment in US-Syrian relations. An American flag rose outside the building, signaling a gradual thaw in diplomatic ties between Washington and the newly-elected Syrian government.
Tom Barrack, the US ambassador to Turkey and now appointed special envoy to Syria, inaugurated the residence during a visit to the Syrian capital. His agenda included a meeting with President Ahmad al-Sharaa, during which they signed an agreement involving a consortium of Qatari, Turkish, and American firms focused on revitalizing Syria’s electricity infrastructure.
The energy project aims to develop a 5,000-megawatt capacity, featuring four combined-cycle gas turbines and a solar power plant. According to UCC Concession Investments, the projects could eventually supply more than half of Syria’s electricity demands. At the signing event, Barrack emphasized the significance of the agreements while expressing enthusiasm for the potential energy boost.
Since 2012, the US embassy in Damascus has remained closed following protests against former President Bashar al-Assad, which descended into a civil war after the regime’s violent response. Although no formal reopening of the embassy has occurred, Barrack’s visit and the flag-raising event signal a shift in US perceptions of Syria and its leadership.
Initially, the US government was cautious about engaging with al-Sharaa due to his past associations, particularly with groups that are still categorized as terrorist organizations by the US. Nonetheless, recent maneuvers, perhaps spurred by regional allies like Saudi Arabia and Turkey, demonstrate an evolving stance as the Biden administration appears more open to collaboration.
A notable highlight of Barrack’s trip was a surprise meeting between President Trump and al-Sharaa during Trump’s recent Middle East tour. In line with this warming relationship, the administration has started lifting long-standing sanctions imposed on Syria, a move Barrack hailed as a “bold decision.” He reiterated that this shift comes without conditions, emphasizing a focus on aligning the newly cooperative states.
“It’s about the alignment of these amazing countries,” said Barrack, referring to the flags of the US, Qatar, Turkey, and Syria on display behind him at the ceremony. The State Department also released a statement via X (formerly Twitter) announcing Barrack’s envoy appointment, highlighting his knowledge of ways to improve peace efforts and reduce radicalism in the region.
In his subsequent post on X, Barrack commended Trump for his forward-thinking vision, which seeks to empower a historically oppressed region and encourage self-determination among its people. This nuanced approach to Syria signals that Washington is keen on exploring pathways toward stability in the Middle East.
The reopening of the US ambassador’s residence in Damascus marks a significant diplomatic shift as Washington seeks to rebuild relations with Syria. The appointment of Tom Barrack as special envoy reflects a growing willingness to engage with the new Syrian government, despite previous hesitations. The planned energy projects signal the potential for substantial improvements in Syria’s infrastructure and electricity supply, further underscoring a new direction in US foreign policy towards the region.
Original Source: ca.news.yahoo.com
