Damascus: Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani announced Tuesday that Syria's foreign policy is focused on restoring relations with all European countries, including Denmark, as Copenhagen reopened its embassy in Damascus after a 14-year closure. Shaibani engaged in discussions with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation.
According to Anadolu Agency, Shaibani emphasized Syria's commitment to re-establishing connections with European nations during a joint press conference with Rasmussen. He noted that Syria's diplomatic efforts have been positively received by European countries interested in developing relations with Damascus. Shaibani acknowledged Denmark's support for the Syrian people during challenging times and highlighted Denmark as the first Scandinavian country to reestablish a resident embassy in Damascus at the ambassador level.
The discussions between the Syrian and Danish officials included a prospective partnership agreement to establish a framework for cooperation across various fields. An upcoming visit to Denmark is expected to culminate in the signing of a strategic partnership agreement. Additionally, Shaibani announced the commencement of direct flights between Damascus and Copenhagen on September 21, aiming to enhance connectivity between the two nations.
Addressing regional issues, Shaibani criticized Israel's declaration that its forces would remain in Syrian territory, describing it as an effort to entrench occupation and undermine security. He reiterated Syria's sovereign rights to build its national army and protect its sovereignty. This statement follows Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz's assertion that Israeli forces would maintain their presence on Mount Hermon and the buffer zone within Syrian territory.
On the diplomatic front, Danish Foreign Minister Rasmussen marked the reopening of the Danish Embassy in Damascus as the start of a new chapter in Syrian-Danish relations. Denmark has committed an additional $76 million this year to support early recovery, stabilization, and the return of Syrian refugees. Rasmussen's visit also included a meeting with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, where they discussed bilateral relations and cooperation on recovery and reconstruction efforts to bolster stability in Syria.
Shaibani and Rasmussen's diplomatic engagement builds on previous discussions held in Brussels in May, where the focus was on expanding political and humanitarian cooperation to support stabilization efforts in Syria.