Doha: Renowned analysts have underscored the strategic importance of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani’s visit to Syria, marking the resumption of Qatari-Syrian relations after a 13-year hiatus. Throughout this period, Qatar remained steadfast in its support for the Syrian people and their aspirations, even during times when the international community lost hope for meaningful change in Syria.
According to Qatar News Agency, analysts emphasized Qatar’s anticipated role in Syria’s reconstruction and the success of its transitional phase, ensuring long-term stability and facilitating a comprehensive political process that steers the country toward recovery.
Dr. Khaled Walid Mahmoud, political analyst and author, described HH the Amir’s visit as highly symbolic and historically significant, being the first by an Arab leader since the fall of the former regime. He highlighted that the visit represents a turning point in regional dynamics, coinciding with swift political and security shifts in the Middle East, as nations reassess their engagement with Syria based on political, economic, and humanitarian considerations.
From a diplomatic perspective, Dr. Mahmoud noted that the visit could serve as a gateway to reopening diplomatic channels and advancing a sustainable political resolution. He pointed to Qatar’s strong ties with key international players, including the United States and Turkey, positioning it as a trusted mediator in the Syrian context.
On the economic front, Dr. Mahmoud stressed that the visit signals potential Qatari involvement in Syria’s reconstruction, particularly in critical sectors such as energy, transportation, and housing. Given Qatar’s extensive expertise in infrastructure development, the country is well-positioned to contribute to rebuilding Syria. Moreover, as one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of natural gas, Qatar may explore investment opportunities in Syria’s energy sector, paving the way for enhanced economic cooperation.
In humanitarian terms, Dr. Mahmoud anticipated an increase in Qatar’s aid efforts, whether through direct humanitarian assistance or long-term development initiatives aimed at improving living conditions. He noted that Qatar’s longstanding support for relief efforts in Syria could expand further, fostering more sustainable solutions to the country’s humanitarian crisis amid ongoing security and economic challenges.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Ahmed Qassim Hussein, a researcher at the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies and editor-in-chief of Arab Policies, described HH the Amir’s visit as a reaffirmation of Qatar’s unwavering stance on Syria. He highlighted that HH the Amir has consistently advocated for the Syrian people’s right to freedom and self-determination on both Arab and international platforms.
Dr. Hussein explained that the visit not only strengthens bilateral ties between Doha and Damascus but also signals an evolving Qatari role in Syria’s political, economic, and security spheres. Politically, he noted that Qatar’s support for the new Syrian leadership, headed by Ahmed Al-Sharaa, was evident in Doha’s decision to reopen its embassy in Damascus raising the Qatari flag once again after its closure in July 2011. This move, he emphasized, reflects Qatar’s commitment to restoring diplomatic relations and fostering cooperation with Syria.
Addressing security concerns, Dr. Hussein highlighted Qatar’s efforts to support Syria’s stability by reinforcing state institutions based on legal and developmental principles. He referenced a statement from Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressing the importance of consolidating state control over arms under a unified national army, ensuring Syria’s sovereignty and paving the way for a comprehensive political transition. These initiatives, he added, underscore Qatar’s pivotal role in guiding Syria through its transitional phase and promoting long-term stability.
Similarly, Dr. Mahjoub Al Zuwairi, Professor of Contemporary Middle East Politics at Qatar University, emphasized the significance of HH the Amir’s visit, calling it a milestone as the first by an Arab or international leader since the success of the Syrian revolution in overthrowing the former regime.
Dr. Al Zuwairi noted that the visit reaffirms Qatar’s commitment to supporting Syria’s stability at both the political and economic levels. He underscored Doha’s dedication to reintegrating Syria into the Arab world, based on its belief in the importance of preserving Syrian territorial integrity and alleviating the suffering of its people.
According to Dr. Al Zuwairi, Qatar envisions a proactive Arab role in Syria’s reconstruction, ensuring the country’s political independence and safeguarding the rights of its citizens. He reiterated that the visit reinforces Qatar’s steadfast position on Syria and highlights the Qatari leadership’s desire to see Syria emerge as a stable and influential player in the Middle East free from external interference that has long hindered its political recovery.
Furthermore, Dr. Al Zuwairi affirmed that Qatar remains committed to Syria’s reconstruction, leveraging its extensive diplomatic network and global standing as a nation dedicated to promoting regional and international peace. He emphasized that Qatar’s strong ties with various international and regional stakeholders enable it to mobilize crucial support for rebuilding Syria’s infrastructure and laying the groundwork for sustainable development, ultimately restoring Syria’s rightful place in the Arab and global arenas.