US diplomats made their first official visit to the Syrian capital of Damascus in more than ten years. This trip took place against the background of significant changes in Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime and is evidence of increased international efforts to influence the formation of a new government in the country.
The American delegation included Assistant Secretary of State Barbara Leaf, Special Representative of the President of the United States on Hostage Issues Roger Carstens and Senior Advisor to the Bureau of Middle East Affairs Daniel Rubinstein. The purpose of the visit is to engage in dialogue with the Syrian people, civil society representatives, activists, and various communities to understand their vision for the country's future and determine how the United States can contribute to its realization.
An important part of the visit is planned meetings with representatives of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, which, although it controls large areas, is still recognized by Washington as a terrorist organization. This step demonstrates the desire of the United States for dialogue even with conflicting forces influencing the situation in Syria.
The visit to Damascus is part of a broader international effort that also includes recent trips by delegations from the United Nations, Great Britain, France and Germany. The United States, together with European and Arab partners, is trying to influence the political development of Syria, ensure stability in the region and promote peaceful change.
According to the press secretary of the State Department, the visit is aimed at "hearing the voices of Syrians and helping them build the future of the country." The move could mark a new chapter in US relations with Syria, which is expected to have significant implications for the future of the region.
