The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, has arrived in Damascus for his first visit to the Syrian capital since the overthrow of President Bashar Assad, BTA reports.
The visit comes shortly after rebel forces led by the Islamist group “Hayat Tahrir al-Sham“ took control of the country as a result of the long-running conflict. During the visit, Sheikh Tamim will meet with the new interim president of Syria, Ahmed Shara, with the aim of the meeting being to promote cooperation between the two countries.
Restoration of diplomatic relations and economic cooperation
The visit of the Emir of Qatar is important not only for the restoration of diplomatic relations between the two countries, but also for promoting economic cooperation in various sectors. Qatar became the second country after Turkey to resume diplomatic relations with Syria, opening an embassy in Damascus. This move is an important signal for the stabilization of the region and the restoration of international relations after the fall of the regime of Bashar al-Assad, who fled to Moscow.
Support for the reconstruction of Syria
About two weeks ago, the Qatari prime minister visited Syria and pledged to support the reconstruction of the country, whose infrastructure was devastated after 14 years of civil war. Qatar, which has supported the Syrian opposition in the past, is now announcing support for the reconstruction efforts of the new Syrian government, which will include investment in the country's key sectors.
The existence of such diplomatic and economic relations could have long-term benefits for Syria and the region as a whole, which underlines the importance of Emir Tamim's visit as a significant step for the future development of bilateral relations.