The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani
VIDEO: Qatar's emir visits Damascus, first Arab leader since Assad's regime fall
The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, arrived in the Syrian capital, Damascus, on Thursday, marking the first visit by an Arab leader to Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
The Syrian presidency stated that the Emir will meet with transitional President Ahmed al-Shara to discuss the latest political developments and strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
Qatar has expressed its support for restructuring the Syrian state and enhancing national reconciliation, emphasizing its commitment to contributing to stability and the development of state institutions on legal and developmental foundations.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry also highlighted the necessity for the state to control weapons under the umbrella of a national army that represents all Syrians, to preserve the country’s unity and sovereignty and pave the way for a comprehensive political transition.
Doha reaffirmed its full support for Syria in various fields and announced its readiness to play an active role in regional and international efforts aimed at realizing the Syrian people’s aspirations for security, stability, and development.
This visit follows a meeting between the Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and the Syrian transitional president Ahmed Al-Sharaa in Damascus in mid-January as part of Qatar’s efforts to strengthen dialogue with the new Syrian leadership.
The past period has seen notable diplomatic steps, including the reopening of the Qatari embassy in Damascus and raising the Qatari flag on it, after more than a decade since it was closed in July 2011.
In line with growing rapprochement, Doha hosted Syrian Foreign Minister, Faisal Mekdad, earlier this month, amid efforts to support stability and enhance cooperation between the two sides.
Qatar has also continued to provide urgent humanitarian aid to Syria, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the Syrian people during the transitional phase.
