Baku, December 30, AZERTAC

An Azerbaijani delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev has visited Syria.

During the visit, Rafiyev met with Assad Hassan Al-Shibani, Foreign Minister of Syria’s transitional government.

Rafiyev conveyed congratulations from Azerbaijan’s leadership on the beginning of a new phase aimed at ensuring Syria’s stability and the well-being of its people, as well as the representation of the Syrian populace in governance. Rafiyev emphasized that Azerbaijan, together with the Republic of Turkiye, stands by Syria during this significant phase. Azerbaijan also declared its willingness to support Syria’s reconstruction efforts.

In addition to humanitarian aid, Azerbaijan is committed to providing necessary diplomatic support to Syria’s new government. Deputy Minister Rafiyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s experience in post-occupation reconstruction and development, which could be instrumental in Syria’s recovery process.

Minister Al-Shibani praised Azerbaijan’s liberation of its territories as a significant event for regional and global peace, extending congratulations to the Azerbaijani people and leadership. He described President Ilham Aliyev as a resolute leader and likened Syria's transition to power by its people to Azerbaijan’s historic victory.

The Syrian Foreign Minister stated that the new government’s primary goal is to achieve national unity through dialogue with all domestic parties and to foster peaceful relations with neighboring states. He pointed out that the previous regime left behind a devastated and isolated Syria, emphasizing priorities such as socio-economic development, national and political unity, and enhancing Syria’s international reputation.

Both sides emphasized their shared commitment to opening a new chapter of cooperation and friendship between Azerbaijan and Syria, aiming to reestablish long-absent bilateral relations. In this regard, it was noted that plans are underway to reopen the Azerbaijani Embassy in Damascus, resuming operations after a 12-year hiatus.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Syrian Foreign Minister Al-Shibani was invited to visit Azerbaijan to further strengthen the newly established ties. He warmly accepted the invitation and expressed his eagerness to see Azerbaijani representatives visit Syria regularly.