SYRIA’S TRANSITION:
Transition Meetings:
August 18:
Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani hosted a visit by the IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi to Damascus on August 18, during which it was confirmed that Syria had permitted IAEA access into the former Assad regime nuclear reactor in al-Kibar, Deir ez Zour (bombed by Israel in 2007) and a previously undiscovered nuclear facility outside Damascus. In a press conference, IAEA DG Grossi confirmed that “several tonnes” of nuclear materials were contained in the facilities and would remain in Syria, under the supervision of the IAEA, in order to place Syria back in good standing. Grossi said “today is an importance day for security, peace, and… non-proliferation.”
Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal al-Shaar hosted a meeting with a delegation from Mastercard on August 18 to discuss continued collaboration in the development of digital economic infrastructure in Syria — as a means to incentivize support for the private sector, investment into Syria, and the empowerment of domestic industry.
Minister of Agriculture Bassel al-Sweidan hosted a meeting with WFP Representative Marianne Ward on August 18 to discuss ongoing cooperation in supporting the development of a more effective and efficient agricultural sector and support to farmers.
