A US State Department spokesperson confirmed that a High-level US delegation from President Joe Biden’s administration will visit Damascus today, Friday.
This delegation will meet with the new Syrian authorities led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
Mentioning that the visit marks the first direct and official meeting between Washington and the new rulers of Syria.
Who Leads the High-level US Delegation to Syria ?
The first High-level US delegation to Damascus after armed factions ousted former President Bashar al-Assad include:
- Barbara Leaf, the US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs
- Roger Carstens, the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs
- Newly appointed advisor Daniel Rubinstein, who will lead the US State Department’s efforts in Syria.
This visit comes as Western governments gradually open communication channels with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and its leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Discussing the possibility of removing the group from the list of terrorist organizations.
Mentioning that the US delegation’s visit follows recent contacts between France and UK and the new Syrian authorities.
What will the US delegation discuss with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham ?
The State Department spokesperson said that the High-level US Delegation will discuss with representatives of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham a set of principles.
Such as inclusivity and respect for minority rights, which Washington wants to see included in Syria’s political transition.
The delegation will also work to obtain new information about the American journalist Austin Tice, who was captured during a reporting trip to Syria in August 2012.
As well as other American citizens who went missing during the Assad regime.
The UAE-China Working Group for Investment and Economic Cooperation held its first meeting today at the Ministry of Economy headquarters in Dubai, with the aim of enhancing the economic partnership and investment growth between the two countries. pic.twitter.com/ObQkZRa0Pa
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Direct Engagement with Syrians
The spokesperson said:
” The High-level US delegation will engage directly with the Syrian people.
Including members of civil society, activists, members of different communities, and other Syrian voices.
In order to know their vision for their country’s future and how the United States can help and support them.”
The spokesperson added:
“They also plan to meet with representatives of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
In order to discuss the principles of transition agreed upon by the United States and regional partners in Aqaba, Jordan.”
