Syrian Foreign Minister Shibani Visits Lebanon, Announces New Bilateral Committee

Syrian Foreign Minister As'ad Shibani made a two‑day visit to Lebanon in early July 2026, expanding on a brief 2025 trip. He met Lebanese officials including Parliament Speaker Nabeh Bri, as well as political and religious figures across Beirut and Tripoli. The minister stressed that Syria has no intention of military intervention in Lebanon and emphasized cooperation on security, border control, the detainee issue and economic matters.

During the visit the two sides signed an agreement to create a Lebanese‑Syrian Joint Supreme Committee, intended to replace the dormant 1990s‑era high council. The new body will coordinate on border security, prevent smuggling, address the status of Syrian prisoners in Lebanese jails and explore trade initiatives such as reviving projects linked to the newly opened Qleiat Airport. The tour was presented as a diplomatic effort by the new Syrian leadership to reshape relations with Lebanon on a "state‑to‑state" basis while maintaining respect for Lebanese sovereignty.