Syrian Foreign Minister announces chemical weapons prosecutions and visits Pakistan

Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Shibani has announced that Syrian authorities are actively working to identify, track, and prosecute those involved in chemical weapons attacks carried out by the former regime. Making the statement from Istanbul on the 13th anniversary of the chemical attacks in Eastern Ghouta and Maadamiyat al-Sham, Shibani noted that the attacks resulted in over 1,400 civilian deaths and left more than 10,000 injured. He stated that a new phase will begin to handle chemical weapon remnants through technical cooperation with international partners.

In a separate diplomatic development, Shibani conducted a historic official visit to Pakistan, marking the first visit by a Syrian Foreign Minister to the country in 19 years. During meetings in Islamabad with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the two leaders discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in political, defense, trade, investment, and educational sectors.

Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, including its position on the Golan Heights. Discussions also touched upon restoring direct flights between the two nations to facilitate travel and pilgrimage. Shibani briefed the Pakistani leadership on Syria’s ongoing political transition and reconstruction efforts.