Syria: We are studying joining the Mecca Agreement for Joint Defense

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said that his country is currently considering joining the “Mecca Agreement for Joint Defense,” which includes Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, while affirming that Damascus has not yet made a final decision on the matter. In statements to Syrian media on Friday, at the conclusion of his official visit to Pakistan, al-Shaibani added that Syrian policy is currently focused on reconstruction, economic cooperation, and building close international and regional relations. He praised Pakistan’s role in the dialogue process between the United States and Iran, clarifying that Islamabad has not yet put forward any mediation proposal between Syria and Iran. Al-Shaibani described his visit to Pakistan as successful, noting agreements between Damascus and Islamabad to reactivate the joint ministerial committee, maintain direct flight services, establish a business council, and organize an investment forum. He affirmed that both sides share the same vision and wish to elevate bilateral relations to the highest level, announcing that Syria will raise its diplomatic representation in Pakistan to the level of ambassador.