Syrian Foreign and Expatriates Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani met with U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Syria and Iraq Tom Barrack in Istanbul on Monday for talks focused on bilateral relations, regional developments and Syria’s economic recovery.

According to Syria’s official SANA news agency, the meeting addressed ways to strengthen relations between Damascus and Washington while reviewing the latest developments across the region.

A major focus of the discussions was Syria’s economic recovery, with the two sides addressing efforts to complete the lifting of sanctions imposed on the country.

The officials also discussed accelerating reconstruction efforts as Syria seeks to revive its economy and rebuild infrastructure damaged during years of conflict.

The Syrian government has repeatedly called for the removal of remaining international sanctions, arguing that sanctions relief is essential to restoring economic activity, attracting investment and supporting reconstruction.

The meeting in Istanbul comes as Damascus continues diplomatic efforts to improve relations with Western governments and secure greater international support for Syria’s economic recovery.

Both sides also discussed broader regional developments, although no further details were immediately provided regarding the specific issues raised during the talks.

The meeting highlights Washington and Damascus’ continued engagement over Syria’s political and economic future, particularly as efforts intensify to address the country’s reconstruction needs and integrate Syria more fully into the regional and international economic system. (ILKHA)