US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Syrian Transitional Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani hold historic talks in Antalya, signaling shift in US-Syria relations

ANTALYA, Turkey — In a groundbreaking diplomatic development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Syrian Transitional Government (STG) Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Antalya, Turkey. The meeting, also attended by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, marked the first formal dialogue between Syrian and American officials in over two decades. 

The STG Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement describing the discussions as “productive and constructive.” Key topics included the gradual lifting of US sanctions on Syria, potential pathways to renewed US-Syria relations, and the foundation for a future strategic partnership. 

“This dialogue represents a new chapter in US-Syria relations,” said al-Shaibani, expressing optimism about the outcomes of the meeting. 

Following the talks, Rubio announced that the United States would begin implementing preliminary exemptions from legal sanctions on Syria, a move initiated under a directive by former President Donald Trump to lift all existing sanctions. 

“Restoring stability to Syria could be one of the most consequential shifts in the Middle East in years,” Rubio told reporters. “We are committed to supporting efforts that contribute to peace and reconstruction.” 

Rubio noted that Syrian officials conveyed their desire to normalize relations with neighboring countries, including Israel, and outlined plans to expel foreign fighters, extremist groups, and other destabilizing actors from Syrian territory. 

The discussions also included Syria’s request for US technical assistance in identifying, securing, and eliminating weapons of mass destruction, particularly chemical weapons. Rubio acknowledged the complexity of such operations, emphasizing the need for advanced technical expertise and international cooperation to achieve these goals. 

The Antalya meeting signifies a potential turning point in US-Syria relations, laying the groundwork for broader engagement and collaboration in addressing regional challenges. As diplomatic efforts progress, both sides are optimistic about fostering a new era of stability, security, and partnership in the Middle East.