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India Strengthens Ties With Syria’s Provisional Government Through Health Cooperation

This effort marks New Delhi’s first formal engagement with Ahmed al-Sharaa’s administration, accompanied by delivery of 5 tonnes of essential medicines

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani attend a press conference following their talks in Moscow, Russia, July 31, 2025. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov/Pool
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani attends a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow, Russia, July 31, 2025. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov/Pool
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov attends a meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani in Moscow, Russia, July 31, 2025. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov/Pool
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Overview

  • Joint Secretary Suresh Kumar led India’s first official delegation to meet Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani and Health Minister Musab Al-Ali in Damascus.
  • India delivered a consignment of 5 tonnes of essential medicines, including anti-cancer drugs, antibiotics and anti-hypertensives, to the Syrian provisional government.
  • The talks focused on establishing collaboration in pharmaceutical manufacturing and training of Syrian medical personnel.
  • Delegates also discussed creating scholarship programs for Syrian students and engineering cooperation initiatives for government staff.
  • New Delhi has retained its embassy in Damascus since December 2024 and continues to advocate for a Syrian-led inclusive political process under President Ahmed al-Sharaa.