Riyadh: US President Donald Trump's decision to lift sanctions on Syria marks a 'pivotal turning point,' according to Syria's foreign minister.
According to Anadolu Agency, Asaad al-Shaibani, speaking to the state-run Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), welcomed President Trump's recent comments about lifting sanctions that were imposed in response to war crimes by the Assad regime. Shaibani emphasized that this decision represents a significant change for the Syrian people as they work towards stability, self-sufficiency, and reconstruction after years of war.
Shaibani expressed readiness to build a relationship with the US based on mutual respect, trust, and shared interests. He stated that Trump's actions have the potential to secure a historic peace deal and serve American interests in Syria, contrasting them with previous administrations that allowed war criminals to operate freely.
Shaibani also extended gratitude to Saudi Arabia, acknowledging its leadership and diplomacy in supporting Syria's efforts to end the sanctions. He praised Riyadh's role in backing Syria's return to an influential position in the region and commended Saudi diplomacy as a 'voice of wisdom' and a testament to Arab unity.
During the 2025 Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh, Trump announced his intention to remove the 'brutal and crippling' US sanctions on Syria, aiming to give the country 'a chance at greatness.' Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa arrived in Riyadh ahead of a meeting with Trump, marking an important diplomatic engagement.
Trump's arrival in Saudi Arabia marks the beginning of a Gulf tour, with subsequent visits planned to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. This tour is his first major international trip of his second term, following a brief visit to Italy for Pope Francis' funeral.
In Syria, a new transitional administration was established in January after the fall of the Assad regime. Bashar al-Assad, who ruled Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia in December, ending the Baath Party's long-standing control since 1963.