Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
During an important international meeting in The Hague, Syria expressed deep gratitude to the State of Qatar for its valuable help and support in representing Syrian interests at the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). This statement came during Syria’s participation in the 109th session of the Executive Council of OPCW, which is one of the world's key platforms for chemical weapons control and cooperation.
Syria made it clear that Qatar’s temporary sponsorship was more than just a formal gesture — it was a powerful sign of the strong and growing relationship between the two countries. Syrian officials said this sponsorship showed Qatar's commitment to helping Syria return to the international stage with dignity and support for peace, cooperation, and long-term stability.
Qatar’s Role in Representing Syria
In recent years, Syria has faced challenges participating fully in international forums due to political and diplomatic complications. But at this session, thanks to Qatar’s temporary sponsorship, Syria was once again able to take part in a meaningful way.
The Syrian representative at the OPCW, Ibrahim Al Alabi, who is both an advisor to the Syrian Foreign Minister and Commissioner for Chemical Weapons, delivered a heartfelt message during the meeting. He publicly thanked the State of Qatar for representing Syria during a difficult period and helping maintain Syria's voice in international decisions.
Al Alabi noted that Qatar’s sponsorship had a real impact, not only allowing Syria to speak up but also helping rebuild bridges with the international community. He said this act reflected true partnership and a spirit of Arab unity at a time when Syria is trying to heal, stabilize, and rebuild after years of conflict.
Syria Acknowledges Progress and Outlines Future Plans
In his speech, Ibrahim Al Alabi also spoke about the progress Syria has made on the ground, especially in areas related to security and cooperation with international institutions.
He announced that Syria was now ready to launch international working groups to address the issue of chemical weapons in a new way. These working groups, though supported by international expertise, would be led by Syria to ensure ownership and accountability.
He said these groups would work to understand the legacy of chemical weapons in Syria, and find ways to close that difficult chapter through transparency, cooperation, and scientific review. The aim is not just to talk about the past, but to take real steps toward rebuilding trust with the international community and avoiding similar issues in the future.
A Positive Reaction from the International Community
Syria's statement and its new, open attitude did not go unnoticed. According to reports from the OPCW session, the entire Executive Council, along with the Director-General of the OPCW, reacted positively.
They praised Syria for making what they described as a “serious shift” in its behavior and approach. This shift was seen as a clear and welcome change from past years, when Syria was often criticized for not fully cooperating with chemical weapons investigations and international inspectors.
The OPCW officials also pointed to a very important meeting between Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara and the OPCW Director-General in Damascus. They said this meeting showed that Syria is now committed to a new path of dialogue, partnership, and peaceful cooperation.
The Road Ahead: Syria’s Return to the Global Stage
This development is part of a larger effort by Syria to rejoin international organizations and rebuild diplomatic ties after years of isolation. With the support of Qatar and other nations, Syria is trying to show that it can be a responsible member of the global community again.
While the journey will not be easy, Syria’s renewed engagement with the OPCW is seen as a key first step. The government’s decision to host international meetings, take part in new working groups, and accept technical support sends a strong message that Syria wants to move forward — not backward.
Qatar’s role in this process is not only appreciated by Syria but also recognized internationally as a thoughtful and constructive contribution to regional peace and diplomatic healing.
A New Chapter of Cooperation
The strong and sincere words from both Syria and the OPCW show that a new chapter is being written. For many years, Syria’s name has been associated with conflict, weapons issues, and global criticism. But now, there is hope that this image can change through real action, honesty, and cooperation.
By thanking Qatar so publicly, Syria not only showed gratitude — it also signaled that it wants more friendships and regional partnerships. In a region where trust can be difficult to build, Qatar’s support has made a big difference.
This type of cooperation could encourage other Arab nations and global partners to rebuild ties with Syria, step by step, focusing on areas where they can work together to solve problems, especially in health, security, education, and disarmament.
The 109th session of the OPCW’s Executive Council was more than just a formal meeting. It was a turning point — one where past conflicts began to give way to future cooperation.
Syria came to the table with a new attitude and a willingness to change. It received praise not just from its allies, but also from a wide range of international representatives who had once doubted its intentions. By being open, respectful, and forward-looking, Syria gained support and opened the door for future progress.
Thanks to Qatar’s support, Syria is not alone in this effort. The friendship between the two nations has given Syria a voice when it needed one most. And now, with new plans in motion and working groups ready to begin, the hard work of rebuilding trust and cooperation continues.
If these efforts succeed, they could help bring long-term stability not only to Syria but to the entire region.
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