Press conference in Damascus confirms the launch of a new chapter in Syrian-Croatian relations

The Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Asaad Hasan al-Shaybani, and his Croatian counterpart, Gordan Radman, held a joint press conference today, Wednesday, at the Tishreen Palace in the capital, Damascus, with the presence of official delegations from both countries, where they announced the launch of a new phase of bilateral relations based on mutual respect and constructive cooperation.

Minister al-Shaybani confirmed that this visit represents the beginning of a new chapter in Syrian-Croatian relations, praising Croatia's positions since 2011 in condemning the practices of the fallen regime, and affirming that lifting restrictions on Syria opens the door to tangible international partnerships, especially in the reconstruction process.

He added that the discussions were constructive, addressing the enhancement of cooperation in various fields and benefiting from Croatia's experience in recovery after the war, stressing that regional stability cannot be achieved amid ongoing Israeli aggressions, calling on the international community to hold Israel accountable for its violations in Syria and Qatar.

For his part, Croatian Minister Radman expressed his happiness to be in Damascus at a pivotal moment in Syria's history, reaffirming his country's full solidarity with the Syrian people, and Croatia's welcome for the lifting of American and European sanctions on Damascus, considering it a necessary step for reconstruction.

Radman also announced Croatia's readiness to open an embassy in Damascus and to form delegations of businessmen to explore cooperation opportunities, especially in the fields of economy and energy, noting that his delegation includes representatives from the Croatian oil company "INA" which ceased operations in Syria in 2012.

At the end of the conference, Minister al-Shaybani emphasized that the return of Syrian refugees is linked to prosperity and stability, and that the Syrian government has developed a strategic vision for this file, calling for regional and international support to ensure a permanent and safe return.