Syrian Foreign Minister: Lifting of U.S. sanctions is "near"... Our visit to Washington was very successful

Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad confirmed that his recent visit to Washington with President Ahmad al-Shara was "very successful," noting that lifting the U.S. sanctions imposed on his country under the "Caesar Act" has become "a matter of time only."

During his participation in a discussion session at Chatham House in London, Mekdad explained – according to what was reported by SANA – that the visit addressed various outstanding issues between Damascus and Washington, adding: "Relations with the United States are witnessing clear progress, and this will positively reflect on the entire region."

Regarding his talks in London, the Syrian minister emphasized the existence of "important files" with the British side, pointing out that Damascus seeks to capitalize on what he described as a "historic opportunity" to enhance bilateral relations. He continued: "Syria is no longer a marginal state; it has become important to all countries of the world."

Mekdad stated that Syria is currently going through a difficult transitional phase that requires time to regain its ability to express itself, affirming the government's aspiration to build a state that its citizens trust and feel a sense of belonging to.

The minister addressed the recent events in the Syrian coast and the province of Sweida, clarifying that each has "different contexts." He said that what happened on the coast "was instigated by remnants of the previous regime," while the disturbances in Sweida – according to him – are due to "social accumulations triggered by direct Israeli intervention," emphasizing that the government has worked to maintain security in the province and provide support at various levels.

In another context, Mekdad accused Israel of playing a "negative role" within Syria and continuing "violations," indicating that Damascus chose not to get dragged into escalation and to respond through diplomatic means. He added: "We do not want to be a party in any proxy war. We seek calm and to remove Israeli claims of a threat, and we view any potential agreement with Israel from the perspective of serving the efforts to rebuild Syria."