On Thursday, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa received the head of Iraq’s National Intelligence Service, Hamid al-Shatri, in the capital Damascus, in the presence of Syrian General Intelligence Chief Hussein al-Salama.

Security Situation

During the meeting, the latest developments in the region were discussed, with a focus on the security situation, according to a statement from the Syrian presidency on X. The talks emphasized the unity and sovereignty of Syrian territory and affirmed that Syria’s stability is a key factor in regional security.

The discussions also touched on economic aspects, particularly the activation of trade exchange and the reopening of land border crossings between the two countries to serve the interests of both peoples, according to the statement.

Meanwhile, Iraq’s official news agency reported that the Iraqi intelligence chief and the Syrian president discussed border security, counterterrorism, and the conditions of the Iraqi community in Syria.

Enhancing Cooperation

The agency added that both parties agreed to increase security cooperation to strengthen peace and stability in the region, noting that al-Shatri’s visit to Damascus was directed by the Iraqi Prime Minister.

It also stated that al-Shatri delivered a message from Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani to President al-Sharaa, addressing ways to develop bilateral relations and overcome shared challenges.

It’s worth noting that last week, President al-Sharaa praised Prime Minister al-Sudani’s stance of non-interference in Syrian affairs. He also commended his economic vision and concern for development and alleviating the suffering of the Iraqi people.

Al-Sharaa remarked, “The Syrian and Iraqi peoples represent a closely linked reality that was divided in the past by political leadership. The two countries can benefit from joint economic projects. I’m aware of the political pressures posed by the upcoming Iraqi elections, and I’m surprised by certain Iraqi factions that interfered in Syrian affairs and later attacked us, even though we never asked them for an apology.”