New york city: Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met Monday with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City. The discussions focused on critical US priorities in Syria amidst changing diplomatic dynamics.

According to Anadolu Agency, the US State Department revealed that the meeting aimed to explore opportunities for Syria to build a stable and sovereign nation, following President Donald Trump's earlier announcement on sanctions relief for the Syrian people. Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott stated that Rubio and al-Sharaa exchanged views on ongoing counterterrorism efforts, the search for missing Americans, and the importance of Israel-Syria relations in achieving greater regional security.

Al-Sharaa's visit to New York marks a significant moment as he is the first Syrian head of state to address the UN General Assembly since 1967. The talks are part of Damascus's efforts to secure a permanent lifting of US sanctions, which remain partially in effect despite recent easing measures. These sanctions originated from a 2019 US law targeting the Bashar al-Assad government for war crimes during Syria's 13-year civil war.

Earlier this year, President Trump lifted broad US sanctions on Syria, following a meeting with al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia. Subsequently, the Treasury Department announced that American companies could resume business with Damascus. In a recent interview, al-Sharaa commended Trump's decision, describing it as "quick, courageous, and historic," and expressed interest in further discussions with Trump to restore relations between Syria and the USA.

The political landscape in Syria has shifted dramatically since Assad fled to Russia last December, ending the Baath Party regime's 25-year rule. Al-Sharaa's transitional administration, formed in January, is now navigating these new diplomatic opportunities.