India’s Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, is set to embark on a significant visit to Syria this week, marking the first ministerial visit from India to the West Asian nation in several years. This visit is part of India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its engagement with the Bashar al-Assad government, following the previous visit of Syrian Foreign Minister Fayssal Mekdad to Delhi last year, where he engaged in discussions with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.
India’s Multifaceted Approach: Commitment to Syrian People
India has adopted a comprehensive approach in its relations with Syria, which encompasses the provision of humanitarian aid as a demonstration of its commitment to assisting the Syrian people during their period of crisis. Since the eruption of the Arab Spring protests in 2011, Syria has faced numerous formidable challenges. However, India has consistently advocated for a non-military resolution to the conflict, underscoring the importance of an inclusive Syrian-led political process. This principled stance has been acknowledged and appreciated by the Syrian government.
Swift Response to Crisis: India’s Support to Syria
Earlier this year, India exhibited its unwavering support for Syria when an earthquake struck the region, originating from neighboring Turkey. Responding swiftly, the Indian government dispatched over 23 tons of emergency relief aid to assist Syria during this critical time. The aid package included essential medicines and vital medical equipment such as electrocardiogram machines and patient monitoring systems. Additionally, India has extended Lines of Credit amounting to USD 280 million to Syria, aiming to facilitate the development of a power plant and a steel plant within the country.
Regional Dynamics: Increasing Engagement with Syria
India’s decision to engage with the Assad government aligns with a broader regional trend, as more countries in West Asia are actively seeking to establish connections with Damascus. Notably, Syria recently regained its membership in the Arab League after more than a decade of exclusion. Furthermore, President Bashar al-Assad’s groundbreaking visit to Saudi Arabia indicates the evolving dynamics in the region.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties: Minister’s Visit to Syria
Minister V Muraleedharan’s visit to Syria underscores India’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and fostering cooperation with the Assad government. This visit is anticipated to provide an opportunity for constructive discussions on various bilateral and regional matters of mutual interest. Through its active engagement with Syria, India seeks to contribute to the promotion of stability, peace, and development in the region, while reiterating the significance of a Syrian-led political process to achieve a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict.
