Damascus: Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih engaged in discussions focused on supporting the voluntary and safe return of Syrian refugees.

According to Anadolu Agency, the meeting took place at the People's Palace in Damascus, with Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani also in attendance. The dialogue aimed at enhancing cooperation between the Syrian Arab Republic and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The presidency's statement highlighted the commitment to assist efforts related to the voluntary and safe return of refugees, alongside initiatives for livelihood and early recovery.

In January 2025, President Sharaa expressed expectations that the majority of Syrians living abroad would return to the country within two years. He estimated the number of Syrians abroad to be around 15 million, following the extensive conflict initiated by the former regime of Bashar al-Assad during the period from 2011 to 2024. Assad, who governed Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on December 8, 2024, marking the end of the Baath Party's long-standing rule that began in 1963. This led to the formation of a transitional administration under Sharaa in January 2025.