Activation of Ukrainian-Syrian Relations: Expert Opinion

In a recent interview with Radio NV, Igor Semivolos, the Director of the Center for Middle Eastern Studies, underscored the significance of enhancing relations between Ukraine and Syria. He stressed the necessity of re-establishing diplomatic relations, noting that Ukraine has already signed an agreement to restore diplomatic ties with Syria. The discussion of opening embassies has become a focal point, with Semivolos indicating that Ukraine is awaiting a signal from Damascus to initiate this dialogue. 'It is evident that in the context of the ongoing war in the Persian Gulf, this time has come,' the expert emphasized.

Semivolos also pointed out Ukraine's economic interests in Syria, particularly concerning Syrian phosphates. 'Syria was a traditional Ukrainian partner in the Middle Eastern markets until 2010, when unrest began there. Therefore, our return to Syria is entirely normal. We have common military equipment, and Ukrainian specialists have worked on most infrastructure projects. We can collaborate on oil and gas projects in Syria and Libya,' he stated.

The expert further highlighted that Syria is facing severe food challenges, notably a grain shortage. 'I hope that this year's harvest will be better, especially in the Al-Jazira regions that have been liberated from Kurdish dominance. Nevertheless, Syria constantly needs grain, and Ukraine is ready to provide this grain under the 'Grain from Ukraine' program. This has also been agreed upon,' he added.

Semivolos also indicated the potential for joint efforts between Ukraine and Syria to enhance regional security. 'For other countries, this is a clear threat, but for Ukraine, the threat in Syria remains in the form of Russian military bases. Although there are fewer personnel, these bases continue to be used as a transit point towards North Africa. The disappearance of these military bases in Syria would complicate logistics for the Russians,' he noted.

Moreover, the expert expressed the possibility of constructing a gas pipeline through Jordan and Syria, contingent upon resolving security issues. 'This would reduce the significance of the Strait of Hormuz, but it will take time,' Semivolos added.

A significant step in restoring relations was the recent visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the Syrian capital, Damascus. During his visit on April 5, he held talks with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. Zelensky mentioned that security issues, the situation in the Middle East, and Russia's war against Ukraine were discussed. 'We agreed to work together to provide more security and opportunities for the development of our societies,' he emphasized.

Zelensky also discussed with al-Sharaa the possibility of food supplies to Syria and the overall enhancement of food security in the region. 'An important day of negotiations in Damascus — today, there were bilateral talks with the President of Syria, as well as a trilateral conversation involving Ukraine, Syria, and Turkey. We are building new relations, new opportunities, and expanding efforts for security,' the Ukrainian president stated.

During the negotiations, Zelensky and al-Sharaa covered a wide range of topics, from security and defense issues to energy and infrastructure cooperation between the two countries. 'We will continue working on food security. We discussed in detail how to overcome the consequences of the war and the negotiation process regarding Russia's war against our state and people,' Zelensky added.

The President of Ukraine expressed gratitude to all Syrians who welcomed the Ukrainian delegation and reminded that Ukraine was among the first to support a new Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.