ISLAMABAD, (TDI): Pakistan’s Foreign Office confirmed on Thursday that Islamabad has not yet established direct contact with Syria’s new leadership.
The government reiterated its support for a resolution that preserves the Middle Eastern country’s unity and territorial integrity.
In December 2024, Syrian opposition forces captured the capital, Damascus, following a swift military campaign, prompting then-President Bashar al-Assad to flee to Russia.
Assad’s ousting ended over 13 years of civil war and more than five decades of his family’s rule in Syria.
Shortly after Assad’s departure, Pakistan expressed support for an “inclusive political process” in Syria, emphasizing that the nation’s future should be determined by its people, free from foreign interference.
“I would not like to comment on specific details, but at this stage, we do not have direct contacts with the leadership of Syria,” said Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch during a press briefing. “However, our embassy remains active in Syria.”
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Baloch reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to a “comprehensive solution” for Syria, one that respects its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. “We believe Syria’s future must align with the aspirations of its people for security, stability, and development,” she stated. “Pakistan will continue to advocate for peace and stability in Syria.”
Following Assad’s removal, Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) quickly consolidated control over Syria.
The group, which led the opposition forces, has since deployed police, formed an interim government, and initiated discussions with foreign envoys. However, concerns remain about the inclusivity of Syria’s new rulers.
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Last month, Mohammed Al-Bashir, the former head of the regional government in HTS-controlled Idlib, was appointed interim prime minister, solidifying HTS’s status as the dominant force among the armed factions that fought to topple Assad’s regime.
