Riyadh hosts high-level talks on Syria's future, sanctions, refugee return

A high-level meeting of foreign ministers from several Arab nations focused on the situation in Syria has commenced in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Chaired by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, the talks feature key diplomats, including Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, head of the Syrian transitional government's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Kuwait, Egypt, and Türkiye's Hakan Fidan, Caliber.Az reports, citing Arabic media.

On January 12, the discussions will expand to include representatives from European nations and the United States.

Notably, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, and UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen have arrived in Riyadh for the talks.

The participants are set to address a range of critical issues, including the establishment of an inclusive political dialogue in Syria following the shift in power in Damascus, as well as the future political structure of the country.

The agenda also includes discussions about the potential lifting of sanctions against Damascus and efforts to facilitate the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.

Notably, on December 8, 2024, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime collapsed as opposition forces, primarily led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), seized control of Damascus. This marked the end of over 13 years of Assad's rule and the Assad family's dominance in Syria since 1971.

In the days leading up to December 8, opposition forces made significant territorial gains, including the capture of Homs on December 7. The swift advance of rebel forces left Assad's regime with little resistance, leading to the fall of Damascus.

Following the regime's collapse, Assad fled Syria and sought asylum in Russia. He later issued a statement from Moscow, defending his rule and denying any prior plans to depart as opposition forces closed in on Damascus.

The fall of Assad's regime has led to significant political changes in Syria. The Syrian Salvation Government, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, has established a transitional government in Damascus. Efforts are underway to rebuild the nation, address humanitarian concerns, and establish a new constitution.

By Khagan Isayev