**Syrian FM Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani Accuses Israel of Expansionism, Highlights Syria’s Renewed Ties with China**
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani recently accused Israel of pursuing expansionist goals and criticized Moscow for its role in supporting the Assad regime, as Syria moves to rebuild diplomatic relations, particularly with China.
During an interview last week with state-run Al Ikhbariyah TV, Shaibani warned that Israel is “pursuing expansionist projects, exploiting recent changes in Syria and destabilizing the region.” He added, “Israel wanted to impose a new reality and an expansionist project, exploiting the change that took place in Syria.” According to Shaibani, Israel’s actions are aggravating instability within Syria.
### Violence in Sweida Described as “A Syrian Wound”
Commenting on the recent violence in Sweida, Shaibani called it “a Syrian wound.” He criticized attempts to “internationalize” the unrest in the Druze city, suggesting these efforts serve “specific external agendas.”
### Suspended Agreements with Russia
Shaibani revealed that prior agreements made between Russia and the deposed Assad government have been suspended and are “not accepted.” He emphasized that Syria’s relations with Russia have been cautious and gradual, with no new agreements signed.
### Moscow’s Role in Syrian Suffering
Highlighting Moscow’s involvement, Shaibani claimed that Russia “participated in the suffering of the Syrian people” through its alliance with Assad’s regime. Before the militant group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, who deposed former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024—launched its final military offensive in November, they were reportedly strategizing on how to handle the political transition.
Shaibani explained the key challenge was “how to prevent Russia from supporting Assad’s regime in any confrontation.”
### Managing International Relations for Syria’s Benefit
Shaibani stressed that Syria’s relations with Russia, China, and European countries must be leveraged for the benefit of the Syrian people. He noted a meeting between HTS and Russia on December 6, 2024, aimed at reducing the threat posed by Russian forces, according to Al Arabiya.
Russia has reportedly scaled back its military deployment in Syria, limiting its presence to the Hmeimim and Tartus bases. Shaibani noted that outstanding issues regarding Russian troops in Syria were discussed during talks between Sharaa and Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reportedly told Shaibani that Russian forces would withdraw if Damascus formally rejects their presence.
### A New Era of Syrian Diplomacy
“We have succeeded in transforming Syrian diplomacy into one that is open to dialogue and cooperation,” Shaibani said.
He emphasized that Syria has not aligned itself with “any international camp or axis” but is “engaging with all countries in a balanced way,” as reported by Syria’s official news agency, SANA. “At this stage, we are planning Syria’s diplomacy rather than merely responding to it, to firmly place Syria on the international map,” he added.
Shaibani also mentioned efforts to restore Syria’s “tarnished” image, especially in Lebanon, and to address the plight of Syrians detained abroad on politically motivated charges.
### Rebuilding Relations with China
Highlighting Syria’s diplomatic outreach, Shaibani announced efforts to restore relations with China, which had previously politically supported the former Assad regime and used its veto power in Syria’s favor.
He revealed that Ahmed al-Sharaa’s government will make its first official visit to Beijing in November, marking a significant step in bilateral relations.
### Kurdish Integration and Opposition to Federalism
Shaibani affirmed the urgent need to implement an agreement to integrate the Kurdish-led, US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces into Syrian state institutions.
“There is a historic opportunity for north and east Syria to play an active role. Any delay in implementing the agreement will harm civilians and impede the return of displaced people,” he said, adding that the government completely rejects federalism in Syria as a “non-negotiable” issue.
### Economic Progress Amid Sanctions Changes
Addressing Syria’s economic outlook, Shaibani referenced recent developments including US envoy Tom Barrack’s call to lift remaining sanctions and Britain’s removal of HTS from its proscribed terror list.
“It will take time, but next year the people will see tangible improvements in living conditions,” Shaibani promised.
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*This statement by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani reflects ongoing political shifts and Syria’s strategic diplomatic engagements as the country navigates complex internal and international challenges.*
https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/israel-exploited-assad-govts-fall-054737563.html
