Damascus, March 14 (SANA) – Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, said Saturday that the country is working to restore its standing in the Arab world and the international community after years of isolation and sanctions.
Speaking at a Ramadan Iftar hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for diplomats accredited in Damascus, al-Shaibani said Syria is pursuing a “balanced policy aimed at preserving the dignity of Syrian citizens and serving them at home and abroad.”
“In the blessed month of Ramadan, we gather in Damascus to reaffirm the values of compassion and mutual understanding among peoples. These values are central to our shared humanitarian mission and reflect the heritage of a land long known as the cradle of civilization and a crossroads of cultures.” al-Shaibani said.
Al-Shaibani also reflected on the 15th anniversary of the Syrian revolution, noting the sacrifices Syrians made in pursuit of freedom and dignity. “Honoring these sacrifices means building the Syria that its people have long envisioned: a safe, stable, prosperous, and just state that safeguards the dignity of its citizens and creates a better future for the next generation,” he said.
He emphasized that the “new Syria” is committed to principles of citizenship, justice, and diversity. This year’s celebration of Nowruz as a national holiday, he noted, reflects respect for all components of Syrian society.
Al-Shaibani said Syria has made significant progress in modernizing consular services, including digital upgrades designed to provide faster, more efficient support to Syrians abroad.
He added that diplomatic missions have been restructured, and Syria recently appointed its first ambassador to the United Nations and a representative to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague. Twelve missions and seventeen consulates have also been reorganized, with al-Shaibani declaring 2026 “the year of missions representing the new Syria.”
Reconstruction remains a key national priority, he added. The government has begun comprehensive assessments of damage and identified essential needs to ensure rebuilding efforts reflect the priorities of the Syrian people.
The Minister said that efforts are focused on revitalizing infrastructure, particularly the energy sector, improving the investment climate, and updating laws to attract investment, create partnerships, stimulate the economy, and generate jobs.
Al-Shaibani also highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the plight of displacement camps and facilitating the return of Syrians to their homes. Plans are underway to launch an international conference on reconstruction to serve as a strategic platform for Syria’s future development.
“Regional peace and stability are essential for any meaningful development and reconstruction,” al-Shaibani said. “Syria aims to strengthen international relationships and build effective partnerships with countries worldwide, contributing to a more stable and prosperous future for its people and the wider region.”
F.R
