West Eyes New Diplomacy in Damascus

Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Western diplomats intensify engagement with Syria's new HTS-led administration. Amidst low currency reserves and ongoing sanctions, leaders urge Western nations to lift restrictions. Talks focus on rebuilding institutions and minority protections, while geopolitical dynamics shift with HTS's past al-Qaeda links.

In a significant geopolitical shift, Western diplomats are ramping up their engagement with Syria's new governing authorities in Damascus. On Tuesday, German and French officials are scheduled to meet with representatives of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led administration, following a meeting between British diplomats and the new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa on Monday evening. These talks mark a potential thaw in Western relations with Syria, nine days after Bashar al-Assad was ousted.

The new prime minister appointed by Sharaa's Islamist HTS group highlighted critical economic issues, stating that the country is struggling with low currency reserves and calling for an end to sanctions that have crippled Syria's economy. However, many Western states remain cautious, balancing these overtures against HTS's prior designation as a terrorist group and its historical links with al-Qaeda.

As Western states explore diplomatic engagements, challenges remain in navigating the legal and financial restrictions currently imposed on the HTS government. The European Union hinted that easing sanctions would require significant political reforms, emphasizing inclusive governance and minority rights protection as pre-conditions. With potential diplomatic changes on the horizon, the region witnesses a fragile yet dynamic transformation.

(With inputs from agencies.)