Syria president discusses security with visiting Lebanon PM

• Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanese PM Nawaf Salam meet in Damascus to forge a new era of border security and sovereign cooperation.

In a significant move to reshape cross-border relations, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam met at the People’s Palace on Saturday to finalize a comprehensive security and economic cooperation agreement.

The meeting, held on May 9, 2026, marks a pivotal chapter in the post-transition era of the region. Both leaders emphasized a departure from the "mentality of the past," focusing instead on state-to-state transparency and the restoration of national sovereignty.

Key Security and Border Initiatives

At the heart of the discussions was the 330-kilometer shared border, which has historically been a conduit for illegal smuggling and unregulated movement.

• Anti-Smuggling Operations: The leaders agreed to implement stricter border controls to prevent the trafficking of weapons, fuel, and Captagon.
• Demarcation Priority: Prime Minister Salam stated that the demarcation of both land and maritime borders is now a "top priority" to ensure long-term stability and legal clarity.
• Hezbollah Neutralization: In a notable shift, President al-Sharaa’s administration reiterated its commitment to dismantling militant influence along the border. Lebanese officials echoed this sentiment, with PM Salam asserting that Lebanon "will not be used as a platform to harm its Arab brothers."

Economic and Humanitarian Cooperation

Beyond security, the delegation, which included the Lebanese ministers of transport and energy, discussed regional connectivity projects.

"This visit is not just about security; it is about launching new joint initiatives in energy and transport that serve the mutual interests of our peoples," PM Salam told reporters following the meeting.

The talks also addressed the repatriation of Syrian refugees. With over one million Syrians currently in Lebanon, both governments are working toward a "clear and dignified" return plan, supported by recent humanitarian funding and improving safety conditions within Syria.

Regional Context

The summit comes at a time when Syria is distancing itself from regional proxy conflicts, following the fall of the previous regime in late 2024. The new Syrian leadership has sought to pivot toward a "positive neighborhood" policy, securing a mediation role from Saudi Arabia to help facilitate these complex border negotiations.

Officials from both sides characterized the talks as "transparent and equitable," signaling a potential end to decades of lopsided political influence and a move toward a stabilized, collaborative Levant.