Qatar has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Syria’s Transitional Government (STG), pledging humanitarian aid, developmental partnerships, and political collaboration as the war-torn country navigates a delicate rebuilding phase after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani praised Qatar’s steadfast support following high-level meetings in Doha with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Minister of State Muhammad Al-Khulaifi.
“Our meeting with our brothers in Qatar was deep and extensive,” Al-Shaibani said. “We discussed our roadmap for rebuilding our country, empowering the Syrian people with their civil rights, and building a government that represents all components of the people.”
Strategic Partnerships & Sanctions Relief
Al-Shaibani highlighted Qatar’s prominent role during Syria’s transitional phase. “Qatar is a strategic partner, and we are keen to consolidate joint relations in a way that serves the interests of both countries,” he stated.
He also stressed the importance of lifting economic sanctions, describing them as a major impediment to Syria’s recovery. “We renew our demand for the United States to lift sanctions to speed up the recovery and start building the new Syria,” he added.
Qatar echoed this sentiment, with Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed bin Muhammad Al-Ansari calling for sanctions to be removed. “The reasons leading to these sanctions no longer exist today,” Al-Ansari said in a press conference, urging immediate action to facilitate humanitarian and economic aid.
Humanitarian Efforts & Aid Deliveries
Qatar has intensified its humanitarian assistance to Syria, operating an air bridge through the Qatar Development Fund. A third plane carrying food, blankets, and winter jackets arrived at Damascus International Airport on Monday, with aid distribution planned for multiple governorates, including Aleppo, Idlib, and Homs.
Qatar Red Crescent teams, in collaboration with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, are overseeing the distribution of supplies to families affected by Syria’s ongoing humanitarian crisis. The air bridge, running two flights weekly, is part of a strategy to address the dire needs of the Syrian population.
Diplomatic & Economic Initiatives
Qatar’s collaboration with Syria extends beyond humanitarian aid. Discussions between Qatari and Syrian officials emphasized strategic partnerships in infrastructure, basic services, and political stability. Al-Shaibani underscored the transitional government’s vision for a new era of regional relations.
“The new Syria will enjoy good relations with the region, in which peace and joint cooperation will prevail, far from the relations of the defunct regime,” he said.
Continued Support
Doha was among the first nations to sever ties with the Assad regime in 2011, in response to its violent suppression of protests. Following Assad’s fall on December 8, Qatar became the second country, after Turkey, to reopen its embassy in Damascus, signaling its robust support for the STG.
Qatar’s Prime Minister reaffirmed the country’s dedication to a political solution for Syria. In a call with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani emphasized the importance of sustainable solutions and coordination with international partners to secure stability and respect for Syria’s sovereignty.
Looking Ahead
The relationship between Qatar and the STG reflects a shared vision of rebuilding a peaceful and inclusive Syria. With Qatar’s humanitarian aid and political backing, alongside calls for sanctions relief, both nations aim to chart a path toward recovery and long-term regional stability.
“Qatar’s support during this critical time is invaluable,” Al-Shaibani said. “Together, we can achieve security, peace, and prosperity for the Syrian people.”
