Azerbaijani deputy FM holds discussions on restoration of embassy operations in Syria

A delegation led by Azerbaijan's Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev paid a visit to Syria, Report informs, citing Azerbaijan's MFA.

During the visit, on December 29, DepuYalchin Rafiyev met with Assad Hassan Al-Shibani, the Foreign Minister of Syria's interim government.

During the meeting, the Azerbaijani side conveyed congratulations from Azerbaijan's leadership on the beginning of a new phase for Syria's stability and people's welfare, as well as on the people's representatives coming to power.

It was stated that Azerbaijan, together with Türkiye, stands with Syria in this newly emerged important phase.

Azerbaijan declared it would provide possible support in Syria's reconstruction process.

It was emphasized that along with humanitarian aid activities, Azerbaijan would also provide necessary diplomatic support to the new government.

The deputy minister also highlighted that Azerbaijan's experience in restoration and reconstruction after liberating its territories from occupation could be utilized in Syria's reconstruction process.

Minister Al-Shibani congratulated the Azerbaijani people and leadership, expressing that Azerbaijan's liberation of its territories from occupation was a significant event for establishing peace in the region and the world. He called Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev a fighting leader and compared the Syrian people's rise to power with Azerbaijan's historic victory. The minister stated that the new Syrian government's main goal is to live in peace with neighboring countries and achieve national unity through dialogue with all parties within the country.

Minister Al-Shibani pointed out that the old regime left behind a destroyed Syria isolated from the international community, and emphasized that increasing domestic socio-economic development, national and political unity, and Syria's international reputation are priorities.

The parties noted their agreement on opening a new page in relations between Azerbaijan and Syria, targeting cooperation and friendship that hasn't existed for a long time. In this regard, it was brought to attention that the reopening of the Azerbaijani embassy in Damascus is planned after 12 years.

Finally, the Syrian foreign minister was invited to visit Azerbaijan to strengthen the newly established relations. Minister Al-Shibani gladly accepted the invitation and expressed that they would be pleased to see Azerbaijani representatives regularly in Syria.