MANAMA — Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa visited Bahrain on Saturday, where he met with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments, according to official sources from both countries.
The meeting at the Sakhir Royal Palace in Manama marked one of al-Sharaa’s latest foreign trips since taking office in January, following the removal of former President Bashar Assad in December.
Syria’s state news agency, SANA, said al-Sharaa is leading a high-level delegation focused on strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation.
Bahrain’s state news agency reported that the leaders discussed ways to enhance bilateral ties and support Syria’s security and stability.
The visit comes ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s planned tour of the Gulf region, during which he is expected to meet with several Arab leaders to discuss regional security and economic partnerships.
Since assuming the presidency, al-Sharaa has prioritized regional diplomacy, visiting Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Turkey.
Earlier this week, he traveled to France to meet President Emmanuel Macron, where he confirmed that Syria has entered indirect talks with Israel — the first such development since the civil conflict began in 2011.
Following Assad’s departure, Syria has renewed efforts to restore ties with Arab and Western governments and push for the lifting of sanctions imposed during the early years of the conflict. Regional leaders have expressed support for Syria’s reintegration, citing the need for economic recovery and political stability.
In April, Saudi Arabia and Qatar announced plans to pay Syria’s outstanding World Bank debt — a step that could pave the way for renewed international support for Syria’s reconstruction, which the United Nations has estimated could cost between $250 billion and $400 billion.
Syria’s new government has emphasized rebuilding alliances and engaging constructively with regional partners as it seeks to reestablish its role in the Arab and international arenas. — Agencies
