Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani is due to arrive in Islamabad on Wednesday for a two-day visit. He will stay in Pakistan from August 19 to 20.
The visit comes at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It marks the first visit by a Syrian foreign minister since the fall of Bashar Assad in 2024.
Talks to Focus on Key Areas
During his visit, Shaibani is expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan’s ministers for defense and commerce.
According to a diplomatic source, the two sides will discuss defense, economic cooperation, and reconciliation. The talks could also help establish new areas of formal cooperation between Islamabad and Damascus.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Relations
The visit comes as Pakistan and Syria seek to build a new framework for bilateral relations. The two countries previously maintained close political and military ties.
Moreover, both sides supported diplomatic engagement and maintained regular official contacts over the years. Pakistan also continued to support Syria’s unity and sovereignty during the civil war.
Pakistan Maintains Diplomatic Presence
After the fall of Bashar Assad, Pakistan kept its embassy in Damascus open. Islamabad also maintained diplomatic representation in Syria.
As a result, Pakistan has preserved an official channel for engagement with the country during its political transition.
Potential for Wider Cooperation
The Syrian foreign minister’s visit could open opportunities for stronger cooperation in defense, trade, and economic development.
Furthermore, discussions on reconciliation may help establish a new foundation for Pakistan-Syria relations. The visit is therefore expected to carry significance for future bilateral engagement.
