Canada rules out reopening its embassy in Syria for now

Canada has confirmed that it does not intend to reopen its embassy in Syria at this time, noting that reopening could be considered in the future if interest from Canadian tourists and businesses increases.

Canada rules out reopening its embassy in Syria for now
26 March, 2026   14:25
NEWSDESK 

The Canadian federal government stated that it has no plans to reopen its embassy in Syria, according to remarks by Gregory Galligan, Canada’s ambassador to Lebanon and the official responsible for the Syrian file, during a session before the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee.

Galligan explained that the embassy, which was closed in 2012, would only reopen if a significant number of Canadian tourists or companies expressed interest in visiting Syria.

He added that “Canada has eased some restrictions to allow grants to women’s organizations and groups promoting a democratic vision in Syria,” noting that this had not been possible under previous sanctions, in response to lawmakers’ questions regarding the easing of restrictions despite ongoing ethnic and religious violence in the country.

A-H 

ANHA