Syrian President Arrives in US for Historic Trip

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa arrived in the United States on Saturday for a landmark official visit, one day after Washington officially removed him from a terrorism blacklist.

This marks the first visit by a Syrian president since the country gained independence in 1946.

Sharaa, whose rebel forces recently ousted Bashar al-Assad, is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday.

The State Department confirmed the delisting was a recognition of “progress” demonstrated by Sharaa’s government, including cooperation on finding missing Americans and eliminating chemical weapons.

Syrian (News Central TV) — The Syrian president arrives in the US for a historic trip. Credit: The Japan Times

The move is intended to foster regional stability.

During his trip, Sharaa is expected to sign an agreement to join the US-led coalition against the Islamic State (IS) group.

This visit highlights Sharaa’s significant political transformation from a former leader of the Al-Qaeda-affiliated Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—which was delisted as a terror group in July—to a global statesman.

Analysts note the move is highly symbolic of the US commitment to the new Syrian government.

The Syrian leader is also expected to seek crucial funding to address the country’s massive $216 billion reconstruction needs following 13 years of civil war.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.