Syria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Asaad al-Shaibani, joined Africa Day celebrations in Damascus organized by African diplomatic and consular missions, alongside a broad gathering of Syrian officials and foreign diplomats.
Shared History and Common Aspirations
Speaking during the event, Shaibani said Africa Day reflects the aspirations of African peoples for unity, solidarity and cooperation. He also highlighted the continent’s long struggle for freedom, independence, development and human dignity.
Shaibani expressed Syria’s appreciation for Africa’s growing role in promoting peace and security, defending justice and encouraging mutual respect among nations. He noted many African countries continue to support development and prosperity while strengthening their voices on the international stage.
The minister said Syria and African nations have maintained strong ties for decades based on mutual respect and solidarity. He pointed to shared experiences in confronting colonialism, occupation and external interference, as well as a common commitment to sovereignty, independence and self-determination.
Addressing domestic issues, Shaibani emphasized the importance of state institutions in maintaining stability and enforcing the rule of law. He said security and development require effective governance and stressed the need to strengthen state authority across Syria while combating organized crime.
African Diplomats Welcome Expanded Engagement
Tunisia’s ambassador to Damascus, Muhammad al-Mahdhabi, spoke on behalf of the African diplomatic missions attending the celebration. He said African countries are ready to deepen political, economic and cultural relations with Syria as the country continues to strengthen its international engagement.
Mahdhabi noted that opportunities exist in investment, trade, tourism, technical cooperation, higher education and health care. He added that Syrian communities living across Africa could play an important role in supporting stronger cooperation and people-to-people ties. South African Ambassador Ashraf Suleiman said the celebration marked the first official Africa Day event held in Damascus.
He noted that the 55-member African Union provides an important framework for expanding communication and cooperation between Syria and African countries. Suleiman also welcomed the Syrian government’s interest in developing relations with Africa and called for greater collaboration in political, economic, cultural and scientific fields.
Reconstruction and Development Opportunities
Several diplomats highlighted the potential for future cooperation as Syria continues reconstruction efforts. Khalid Ali, chargé d’affaires at Sudan’s embassy in Damascus, described Syrian-African relations as deep and promising. He said Africa has valuable expertise to contribute to Syria’s rebuilding process and emphasized the desire of both sides to strengthen economic, investment and cultural cooperation.
Abdullah Babah of Morocco’s embassy stressed the significance of Africa Day and Morocco’s longstanding support for African unity and development. He described Syrian-African relations as distinctive and full of potential, particularly in light of recent diplomatic engagement between Syria and Morocco.
The event underscored growing interest in expanding cooperation between Syria and African nations, with participants emphasizing opportunities in reconstruction, investment, education and cultural exchange.
