Tue Jan 07 17:01:09 UTC 2025: ## Historic Qatar Airways Flight Marks Damascus Airport Reopening
**Damascus, Syria –** A Qatar Airways flight landed at Damascus International Airport on Tuesday, marking the first international commercial flight to the airport since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad. The arrival was met with joyous reunions as many passengers were Syrian nationals returning home after over a decade of exile.
The flight, carrying primarily Syrian citizens, signaled a significant shift in international relations following the recent rebel offensive. Qatar, which aided in the airport’s rehabilitation after years of neglect and damage from conflict, played a key role in facilitating the flight. One passenger, Osama Musalama, returning from the United States, expressed relief and hope, stating he had lost hope of ever returning.
The event coincided with a test flight by Royal Jordanian Airlines, assessing the airport’s condition for the resumption of regular flights. This renewed air connectivity reflects a broader trend of Arab and Western countries re-engaging with Syria’s new de facto authorities, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Syria’s new Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shibani, has undertaken a diplomatic tour of Gulf states, securing potential support for reconstruction. In Jordan, he held talks focused on enhanced cooperation across various sectors, including energy, transport, and trade. A key element of the discussions centered on addressing the previous Captagon drug smuggling issue, with both countries pledging to eradicate the trade. Jordan also pledged to provide immediate electricity and gas assistance to alleviate Syria’s ongoing energy crisis.
Looking ahead, al-Shibani announced plans for an inclusive national dialogue conference to discuss Syria’s future, with the formation of a broad preparatory committee. This committee aims to represent all segments of Syrian society as the country navigates its transition and reconstruction.
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