Syrian Foreign Minister Visits Washington to Discuss Sanctions Relief

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Sheibani conducted a series of meetings in Washington, D.C., to explore ways to lift sanctions imposed on Syria, including the Caesar Act. This marks the first visit by a Syrian foreign minister to the United States in 25 years.

Meetings with U.S. Officials

During the visit, Al-Sheibani met with members of both the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, as well as the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State. The Syrian Foreign Ministry stated that the talks focused on opening a new chapter in bilateral relations and lifting sanctions that have negatively impacted Syria’s economy.

Background and Syrian Expectations

The visit follows a previous decision by U.S. President Donald Trump in May to sign an executive order easing some sanctions on Syria, alongside the European Union’s full sanctions lift in May 2025. The Syrian government hopes these talks will lead to the complete removal of U.S. sanctions, particularly the Caesar Act, which continues to hinder investment and reconstruction efforts despite temporary exemptions. Damascus asserts that the rationale behind the sanctions no longer applies following the overthrow of the previous regime.