Syrian President Arrives in US for Landmark Visit After Delisting

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa arrived in the United States on Saturday. This marks a historic official visit. It is the first by a Syrian leader since the country’s independence in 1946.

The trip follows a major US policy shift. Washington removed President al-Sharaa from its terrorism blacklist just one day prior.

White House Meeting and Diplomatic Thaw

President al-Sharaa is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump on Monday. The meeting will take place at the White House. This signals a significant warming of relations.

The interim leader previously met President Trump in Riyadh. According to Reuters, this ongoing dialogue is building a new bilateral framework. The US plans to establish a military base near Damascus for coordination purposes.

A diplomatic source indicated the base would coordinate aid and observe regional developments. This move aims to stabilize the region after years of conflict.

Rebuilding and Regional Stability

The visit underscores a dramatic transformation for Syria’s leadership. The new government has actively distanced itself from a violent past. It now seeks international legitimacy and support.

A primary goal for President al-Sharaa is to secure funds for reconstruction. The World Bank estimates rebuilding costs at a staggering $216 billion. This follows 13 years of a devastating civil war.

The US delisting decision recognizes progress made by the new Syrian leadership. It aims to promote an inclusive, Syrian-led political process for long-term peace.

This landmark visit by the Syrian president represents a pivotal moment for US-Syria relations. It opens a new chapter focused on regional security and the immense task of rebuilding a nation.

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Why was the Syrian president on a US blacklist?

He was previously affiliated with the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. This organization had ties to Al-Qaeda. It was only delisted as a terrorist group by the US in July.

What are the main goals of this US visit?

The visit aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and discuss rebuilding efforts. President al-Sharaa is also expected to seek international funding. He may sign an agreement to join the coalition against the Islamic State.

How significant is this visit historically?

This is the first official US visit by a Syrian president since 1946. It marks an astonishing transformation for the leader from a militant background to a global statesman.

What does the US hope to gain from this new relationship?

The US seeks to promote regional security and stability. It also aims to foster a Syrian-led political process. Establishing a coordination base near Damascus is a key strategic step.

What is the estimated cost to rebuild Syria?

The World Bank provided a conservative estimate. The cost of rebuilding Syria is approximately $216 billion. This figure highlights the immense scale of the challenge ahead.