Historic Diplomatic Engagement in Washington
U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), serving as the Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, led a bipartisan group of senators in a significant meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani in Washington, D.C. on September 18, 2025. This high-level engagement marks the first official visit by a Syrian foreign minister to the United States in more than 25 years, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic relations following the establishment of a new transitional government in Syria.
Discussions Centered on Stability and Economic Recovery
The primary focus of the discussions was on fostering stability and achieving economic prosperity in Syria. Both U.S. and Syrian officials affirmed a shared interest in a stable and economically viable Syria, recognizing its importance for broader regional stability. A key point of contention and discussion revolved around the impact of existing sanctions, particularly the Caesar Act, on Syria's economy. Participants noted that these sanctions are hindering urgently needed investment in the Syrian economy.
Bipartisan Call for Sanctions Review
Senator Shaheen, who has previously introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at repealing certain sanctions, underscored the critical economic situation in Syria. She stated, 'Syria's economy is in crisis, and its authorities need financial resources to maintain basic functions of governance.' Shaheen warned against inaction, suggesting that a failure to address the economic challenges could 'risk plunging Syrians back into conflict.' The bipartisan delegation included Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chris Coons (D-DE), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Andy Kim (D-NJ). The meeting also involved U.S. Special Envoy for Syria Thomas Barrack.
Context of Syria's Re-engagement Efforts
Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani's visit is part of a broader effort by the Syrian transitional government, which assumed power after the fall of the Assad regime in late 2024, to re-engage with the international community and seek relief from sanctions. Al-Shaibani was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates on December 21, 2024. His trip to Washington follows earlier engagements, including a visit to Russia in July 2025 and meetings with the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. The Syrian Foreign Ministry indicated that the visit reflects 'Syria's openness to direct dialogue with the United States' and would cover 'issues of mutual interest in the political, security and economic spheres.'
5 Comments
Eugene Alta
While dialogue is essential for de-escalation, we must ensure any sanctions relief is tied to concrete, verifiable reforms and human rights improvements. There's a fine line between engagement and capitulation.
Katchuka
Don't fall for it. 'New transitional government' is just a rebrand of the same old oppressors.
KittyKat
More empty talks from Washington. Nothing will truly change for the Syrian people.
Michelangelo
Acknowledging the humanitarian crisis and need for investment is important, but simply lifting sanctions without strong oversight mechanisms could backfire. We need guarantees that aid reaches those who need it, not those in power.
Donatello
A first visit in 25 years is significant, showing a willingness to re-engage. Still, the long history of conflict and mistrust means genuine reconciliation and lasting peace will require far more than just economic discussions.