KYIV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed on Thursday, January 2, that Ukraine is preparing to restore diplomatic relations with Syria. This announcement comes just weeks after the collapse of Syria’s Russia-backed government in Damascus.
Zelenskyy’s remarks followed the recent visit by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Agriculture Minister Vitaliy Koval to Syria. During the visit, it was confirmed that Ukraine had already dispatched food aid to the war-torn country. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is ready to resume diplomatic ties and expand cooperation within international organizations.
Ukraine severed diplomatic relations with Syria in June 2022 after the then Syrian government recognized the “independence” of territories in Ukraine’s Donetsk and Luhansk regions, which were occupied by Russia.
Following the ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad last month, Ukraine has been working to strengthen its relationship with the new leadership in Syria. Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, had been a key supporter of Assad and provided him with political asylum.
In addition to diplomatic efforts, Ukraine also plans to boost trade relations with Lebanon, with a focus on increasing agricultural exports, which currently stand at $400 million. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine aims to at least double this amount in the near future.
Furthermore, Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine’s commitment to its humanitarian efforts, specifically mentioning the “Grain from Ukraine” initiative. Under this program, Ukraine is set to deliver 500 metric tons of wheat flour to Syria, in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme. This shipment is expected to support approximately 167,000 Syrians for a month. Agriculture Minister Vitaliy Koval confirmed that this would not be the last shipment, with Syria expressing interest in further deliveries of oil, sugar, and meat.
Koval also noted that Ukraine’s support for Syria will be long-term and sustainable, ensuring reliable aid for the country’s recovery efforts.
Meanwhile, Moscow has confirmed that it is in discussions with the new Syrian administration regarding Russian military installations in Syria and other related matters.
