DAMASCUS, Nov. 29 (Xinhua) -- Syrian foreign affairs chief Asaad Hassan al-Shibani said here on Saturday that the government's main priorities for the current phase are facilitating refugee returns, rebuilding communities, and attracting international investment.
At a joint press conference with visiting Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen in Damascus, al-Shibani said Syria is committed to ensuring the return of all Syrians "without exception" and discussed practical measures with Rasmussen to facilitate the return of Syrian refugees in Denmark who wish to come back.
Al-Shibani said Syria is pursuing "an open economy based on international partnership and good governance" and encouraged foreign companies, particularly in renewable energy, to explore investment opportunities. He added that both sides plan to launch a Syrian-Danish business council.
On regional developments, al-Shibani strongly condemned recent Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, calling them "a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter." He called on the international community, the Arab League, and the UN Security Council to act to halt the strikes, which he said threaten regional peace.
Al-Shibani added that the Syrian authorities have carried out their duties to restore security across the country, adding that stability is returning despite ongoing challenges.
The Danish foreign minister said many Syrian refugees in Denmark wish to return when conditions permit and noted that Copenhagen has established a committee to review individual cases. He added that Denmark hopes to reopen its embassy in Damascus soon.
Rasmussen's visit represents the highest-level engagement between Denmark and Syria since the latter's political transition in late 2024. ■
