Damascus: Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Shaibani announced plans for his first official visit to China in early November, following an invitation from Beijing. This visit marks a significant development in the evolving relationship between Syria and China. According to Anadolu Agency, Shaibani made this announcement during an interview with the state-run Alikhbaria TV. He emphasized the importance of China's support for Syria's reconstruction efforts, noting that this visit signifies a shift in bilateral relations. Previously, China politically supported the former regime of Bashar al-Assad and upgraded ties to a 'strategic partnership' during Bashar al-Assad's visit to China in September 2023. Shaibani also addressed the current state of Syrian-Russian relations, stating that no new agreements have been signed and existing agreements remain suspended. He highlighted Syria's intention to restore relations with Lebanon, distancing the current government from past legacies. Discussing the Syrian refugee s ituation in Lebanon, Shaibani acknowledged the pressure it places on both countries. He outlined Syria's new foreign policy, which seeks to avoid polarization and hostility with any nation. On the matter of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Shaibani stressed the importance of finalizing a partnership with the SDF, whose backbone includes PKK/YPG groups. He advocated for the March 10 agreement as a solution to bridge the divide between the SDF and the state. Regarding Israel's actions, Shaibani condemned Tel Aviv's expansionist agenda, which he believes exacerbates instability in Syria and the region. He firmly rejected any notion of partition or federalization within Syria, declaring it non-negotiable.