Syrian President Hosts U.S. Congress Member in Landmark Visit

Syria’s President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with U.S. Congressman Cory Mills in Damascus, marking the first meeting of American legislators in post-Assad Syria. The visit included a tour of significant sites and discussions about lifting sanctions imposed during the conflict. Lawmakers expressed a positive outlook for the country’s future and the importance of U.S. support in developing its new governance.

On Saturday in Damascus, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa met U.S. Congressman Cory Mills in a significant meeting, marking the first visit by American legislators since the removal of former President Bashar Assad. The state news agency SANA reported the meeting but did not provide further details. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani was also present, as this meeting follows demands by Syria’s new leadership for the lifting of international sanctions imposed during the ongoing conflict.

During his unofficial visit commenced on Friday, Congressman Mills, along with Rep. Marlin Stutzman, explored various locations in Damascus, including the historic old quarter and a severely damaged synagogue that suffered during the 14 years of conflict resulting in the deaths of approximately half a million individuals. Congressman Stutzman later visited Saydnaya Prison, notorious for housing many victims of torture and killings under the Assad regime.

The recent takeover of power by al-Sharaa’s Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led to Assad’s exile to Russia, following a swift offensive in December. In a notable shift, the Biden administration decided against pursuing a $10 million reward for al-Sharaa’s capture shortly after Assad’s removal. This decision followed a diplomatic meeting between al-Sharaa and Barbara Leaf, the then senior U.S. diplomat for the Middle East.

Although the Trump administration has not officially recognized the current Syrian government, some restrictions have been relaxed by the U.S. to facilitate humanitarian aid entering Syria. A six-month general license from the U.S. Treasury permits specific transactions with the Syrian government, including energy sales. Syrian officials persistently advocate for the lifting of broad sanctions while the U.S. administration insists on conditions such as the safeguarding of minority rights.

Rep. Stutzman expressed a positive outlook for Syria’s future, stating a lifting of sanctions could spur economic growth, emphasizing, “it will be very helpful having the United States understand what the changes are here, and that the sanctions lifted would be a huge economic boom.” He noted his objective is to share developments with his congressional colleagues to support Syria against reverting to autocratic governance.

The meeting between President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Congressman Cory Mills represents a pivotal moment in U.S.-Syria relations following the regime change in Syria. With ongoing discussions about lifting sanctions and increasing humanitarian aid, the potential for improved economic conditions in Syria remains a focal point for U.S. legislators. The narrative of optimism articulated by lawmakers underscores the changing dynamics in post-Assad Syria and the hope for a cooperative relationship moving forward.

Original Source: www.seattletimes.com