Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa concluded his first official visit to Kuwait on Sunday, June 1, marking a significant diplomatic step in Syria’s reengagement with its Arab neighbors. The visit came at the invitation of Emir Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah and highlighted a shared commitment to bolstering bilateral cooperation and reinforcing Arab solidarity.
Sharaa expressed his gratitude for the Emir’s warm reception, calling the visit “an important step toward consolidating bilateral relations and achieving coordination and integration in various fields,” according to a statement published by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).
The talks, held at Bayan Palace, addressed a range of political and economic topics. The two leaders discussed strategies for regional stability and reiterated their mutual stance on preserving Syrian sovereignty and rejecting foreign interference.
Focus on Economic Engagement and Reconstruction
During the visit, Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani met with Kuwaiti ministers, including First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Yusuf Saud al-Sabah and Foreign Minister Abdullah al-Yahya. Discussions focused on ways to enhance joint cooperation in infrastructure, energy, and industrial development.
In a separate meeting with Kuwaiti business leaders, the Syrian delegation outlined investment opportunities in post-conflict Syria. Sharaa affirmed Syria’s readiness to attract regional investment and foster economic growth through cooperation with Gulf partners.
“This visit embodied the shared desire to strengthen cooperation between Syria and Kuwait and affirm Arab unity in confronting the challenges facing the region,” Sharaa said in a letter of thanks to the Emir, posted on the Syrian presidency’s website.
Engagement with the Syrian Diaspora
As part of the diplomatic mission, Sharaa met with members of the Syrian community residing in Kuwait. The meeting allowed the delegation to hear directly from expatriates about their concerns and aspirations. Sharaa emphasized his administration’s commitment to protecting their rights and strengthening their connection to Syria.
Kuwait has played a notable role in supporting Syria’s transition since the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. It was among the first Gulf states to recognize the new government and has publicly endorsed Syria’s reintegration into the Arab fold. In May, the Kuwaiti foreign ministry voiced support for US efforts to lift sanctions on Syria, describing the move as conducive to regional development and reconstruction.
Regional Outlook and Future Cooperation
President Sharaa’s visit to Kuwait follows a series of diplomatic engagements with Gulf states, part of a broader initiative to rebuild regional alliances. Kuwait marks his fifth Gulf destination since taking office and symbolizes the thaw in relations after years of estrangement under the former regime.
“This noble country has always stood by Arab causes, especially Syria’s path toward stability and reconstruction,” Sharaa said, reaffirming that Syria “remains open to its Arab brothers” in the pursuit of peace and development.
