In a significant diplomatic move, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Qatar on Thursday.
This marks the first encounter between the leaders of the neighboring nations.
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani brokered the meeting, which occurred before Sharaa’s anticipated attendance at the Arab Summit in Baghdad next month.
Al-Sharaa was appointed interim president in January, vowing to establish an inclusive transitional government and rebuild Syria’s damaged institutions before holding elections within five years.
Syria has also issued a constitutional declaration to guide this interim period, upholding Islamic law while ensuring women’s rights and freedom of expression.
During their discussion, al-Sudani advocated for a comprehensive political process in Syria and the safeguarding of its diverse social, religious, and national fabric, particularly following a recent attack on Alawites.
He also emphasized the critical need for the new Syrian government to actively combat Islamic State militants.
Al-Sudani suggested that progress on these fronts could foster stronger ties between Baghdad and Damascus.
Both leaders affirmed their commitment to respecting the sovereignty of their respective nations and rejecting any external interference.