Syria and Morocco discuss cooperation in energy and sustainable development

Syrian Foreign Minister and Expatriates Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani held a meeting in the Moroccan capital Rabat with Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development Leila Benali. The talks focused on prospects for bilateral cooperation in energy and sustainable development, as well as the exchange of technical expertise, within the broader framework of expanding economic partnerships between Damascus and Rabat.

Resumption of Diplomatic Operations

Al-Shaibani announced during the visit the resumption of the Syrian embassy's operations in Rabat, following a suspension of more than twelve years. A flag-raising ceremony was held at the embassy premises in the presence of Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, marking the formal restoration of full diplomatic representation between the two countries.

Bourita described the visit as historic, noting it was the first by a senior Syrian official to Morocco in years, and affirmed that the reopening of the Syrian embassy in Rabat signaled the return of bilateral relations to their natural course after a diplomatic freeze lasting over a decade.

A Comprehensive Bilateral Roadmap

At a joint press conference, al-Shaibani announced that both sides had agreed on a comprehensive roadmap for bilateral relations, beginning with political cooperation at the level of the two foreign ministries and extending to economic, educational, and commercial dimensions. He also confirmed agreement on establishing a joint business council and drawing on Morocco's experience across several sectors.

Al-Shaibani noted that relations between the two countries are on an upward trajectory, adding that Damascus is awaiting a visit by Bourita to inaugurate the Moroccan embassy in Syria, a step that would complete the restoration of mutual diplomatic representation.

Political and Regional Consultations

Al-Shaibani met with his Moroccan counterpart Bourita to discuss ways of strengthening bilateral ties and exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues of shared concern. The two sides also agreed to review the legal and institutional frameworks governing their relations, in line with their shared ambitions for a modernized partnership.

Morocco's Position on Syria

King Mohammed VI of Morocco, in a message addressed to President Ahmed al-Sharaa, reaffirmed the Kingdom's support for the Syrian people and its commitment to preserving Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Bourita reiterated Morocco's readiness to accompany Syria through its current transitional phase through solidarity, dialogue, and cooperation.