Al-Shaybani: Presidential Elections Expected in 4–5 Years
Syrian Interim Government Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani said that Syria is moving toward a new political phase centered on forming political parties and strengthening pluralism within state institutions. Speaking during a panel discussion at Chatham House in London, he explained that the interim government has spent the past eleven months working to fill the political vacuum in the country, noting that presidential elections could be held within four to five years as part of the anticipated political process.
Discussing recent developments inside Syria, al-Shaybani said that the events seen in the Syrian coast were “orchestrated by the former regime”, while the tensions in As-Suwayda were influenced by “Israeli intervention.” He added that the interim government is working to “rebuild trust” with the region’s residents, pointing to external interference, acknowledging that “everyone has made mistakes,” and noting that some parties “do not wish to reach a settlement.”
Al-Shaybani stressed that rejecting sectarianism is essential for the success of the upcoming political phase, and that any approach based on dividing the country is “incorrect.” He further highlighted that transitional justice is a core pillar of the government’s national reconciliation efforts.
Regarding negotiations with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), he stated there has been “no positive or practical progress” in talks with the group’s commander, Mazloum Abdi.
On regional dynamics, al-Shaybani said that Israel “is not satisfied with the change that has taken place in Syria” and has continued its “violations,” noting that the interim government has avoided escalation and opted to respond through diplomatic channels.
Economically, he affirmed the availability of investment opportunities across various sectors in Syria, emphasizing that these opportunities are not limited to any single party or family.
