Beijing: Syria and China agreed Monday to deepen collaboration in the fields of security and counter-terrorism. A joint statement following Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani's talks in Beijing with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, indicated that the two sides committed to enhancing coordination and collaboration in these critical areas.

According to Anadolu Agency, the two ministers conducted 'constructive bilateral talks' and exchanged views on Syrian-Chinese relations and shared international concerns. Both nations emphasized 'the importance of the historic friendship' between Syria and China and vowed to maintain and develop their relationship based on mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs.

The discussions also focused on boosting cooperation in the fields of economy and development, Syria's reconstruction, capacity-building, and improving Syrian living conditions. Shaibani expressed Syria's readiness to expand cooperation with China, highlighting Syria's awareness of China's security concerns and assuring that Syria will not pose a threat to China.

Shaibani thanked China for its support to the Syrian people and praised China's development model, which has achieved security and prosperity for its citizens. He reiterated Syria's commitment to the One-China principle, recognizing the Chinese government as the sole legitimate authority representing all of China and affirming that Taiwan is an integral part of China. He also expressed opposition to any interference in China's internal affairs.

Wang Yi supported Syria's political process and efforts to combat terrorism and narcotics, underscoring that the Israel-held Golan Heights is recognized internationally as occupied Syrian land. China reaffirmed its respect for Syria's sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and national unity, recognizing the Syrian government as the sole legitimate representative of the Syrian people.

Meanwhile, the state-run Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) denied media reports about plans by Damascus to transfer Uyghur fighters to China, citing a foreign ministry source. These reports had surfaced ahead of Shaibani's visit to Beijing, his first since the formation of a new government in Syria.

Shaibani's trip is part of the new Syrian administration's efforts to expand cooperation with regional and international partners and to lift economic and political sanctions as Syria seeks to rebuild after 13 years of civil war.