DAMASCUS: Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of Syria's new administration, in Damascus on Monday as part of a diplomatic mission aimed at renewing bilateral ties and exploring cooperation in various sectors.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sybiha conveyed a message from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the meeting, expressing Kyiv's readiness to assist Syria in restoring normalcy, stability, and food security. Sybiha emphasized the importance of Syria respecting international law, including Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as a foundation for restoring diplomatic relations and dialogue between the two nations.

Sybiha also engaged in discussions with Syria's new Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, culminating in a joint news conference. Al-Shaibani welcomed the Ukrainian diplomat, highlighting Syria's transition towards establishing fresh relations and closing a chapter tied to the previous regime. He noted plans for cooperation with Ukraine in political, economic, social, and scientific fields.

President Zelenskyy commented on the diplomatic visit, emphasizing Ukraine's support for the Syrian populace in overcoming past authoritarian rule and working towards stability and normalcy. He also announced the arrival of 500 tons of wheat flour from Ukraine to Syria, the first installment under Kyiv's Grain from Ukraine initiative, aimed at aiding 33,250 Syrian families in the coming weeks.

The visit by Sybiha follows Zelenskyy's recent directive to the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry to enhance contacts with Syria's new administration, reflecting a strategic intent to build a robust partnership with the reformed Syrian leadership.