For the first time since the outbreak of civil war in 2011, U.S. diplomats are coming to Damascus to engage with the new leadership of Syria, and to explore avenues for stability and inclusivity. The visit is a landmark as it represents a renewed push to bring about dialogue and cooperation into the life of a country emerging from years of conflict.
A historic diplomatic mission
U.S. officials are now talking with Syria’s new leadership as well as representatives from every stratum of society. In this mission, the hope is that the nation is going to rebuild in ways that promote unity, inclusion, and support for its varied communities.
Among the delegation, Barbara Leaf is the head of the State Department responsible for the Middle East; Daniel Rubinstein is a diplomat with much experience in looking after U.S. engagement with Syria. Accompanying them is Roger Carstens, who specializes in identifying cases of missing Americans that include journalist Austin Tice, who went missing in 2012.
State Department spokeswoman states that the delegation tries to understand what Syrians believe is needed for the country in the future and will deliberate how the United States might contribute constructively to rebuilding that country.
Focus on international cooperation
This comes in the wave of international efforts aimed at stabilizing Syria. It has been during the recently concluded talks in Aqaba, Jordan, that the international and regional powers, particularly Turkey, have urged Syria to form an inclusive and non-sectarian government which respects the rights of all Syrians. This hints at growing agreement on the fact that only unity and collective effort will rebuild the nation tormented by war.
France has already reopened its embassy in Damascus and has flown its flag for the first time in over ten years. It represents a global action by nations to re-establish links with Syria and nudge the region toward a higher degree of stability.
Syria’s Future
Years of war have marred Syria’s cultural and ethnic diversity. The US delegation, in meeting with community leaders, activists, and civil society groups, hopes for an inclusive Syrian governance model that reflects all the expectations and aspirations of communities moving forward in its outreach to the people of Syria.
The visit also emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in the face of broader challenges such as humanitarian needs, economic recovery, and security concerns. This engagement is seen as an important step toward helping the Syrian people rebuild their country.
Restoring Trust and Stability
The return of U.S. diplomats to Syria is a reaffirmation of commitment to diplomacy and constructive engagement. Despite all challenges, this initiative speaks to a shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous Syria that the world community has for it. International and regional partners must collaborate on creating a stable foundation for the Syrian people to reclaim their future.
