Al-Shaibani from Beirut: We focus on strengthening Syrian-Lebanese relations

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani held a series of official meetings in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, with President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. According to a post by Al-Shaibani on his X account, the talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations, expanding economic cooperation, reaffirming respect for the sovereignty of both countries and the principles of good neighbourliness, as well as discussing regional and international developments of mutual interest.

Following his meeting with Berri, Al-Shaibani described the talks as "very positive," according to media reports. He said the visit carried "a message of goodwill and cooperation with all Lebanese communities and institutions," adding that the discussions were centred on strengthening Syrian-Lebanese relations and supporting Lebanon.

Asked whether he planned to meet representatives of Hezbollah, Al-Shaibani said his itinerary included meetings with various Lebanese political parties and stakeholders. However, he confirmed that "there is no meeting with Hezbollah today," while noting that such a meeting "could take place in the future if it serves the interests of both sides."

In a related development, Al-Shaibani and Salam attended a signing ceremony for an agreement establishing the Syrian-Lebanese Higher Committee during the visit in Beirut.

Al-Shaibani's visit to Beirut comes amid heightened political activity across the region and follows remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a potential Syrian role in Lebanon. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa had previously responded to those comments by stressing that Damascus has no intention of interfering in Lebanon's affairs, while expressing openness to dialogue with all parties if it serves the interests of both Syria and Lebanon.