Zelenskyy makes statement on Syria and diplomatic relations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared a post on his social media account following the visit of Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Minister of Agrarian Policy Vitaliy Koval to Syria.

In his message, Zelenskyy stated, "This year, we can add more countries to our list of reliable partners, especially Syria. We are preparing to restore diplomatic relations and cooperation in international organizations. I thank our intelligence services for preparing the security groundwork for these contacts."

Zelenskyy also noted that they are considering increasing trade with Lebanon, saying, "Currently, our agricultural exports to this country are at the level of 400 million dollars, and we aim to at least double this."

Emphasizing that they also plan to increase activities toward Africa in 2025, Zelenskyy added, "Because every new partnership creates greater opportunities for our diplomacy and our economy."

"EXCEEDED 41 BILLION DOLLARS"

Zelenskyy stated, "In 2024, we managed to increase our exports by more than 5 billion dollars (15 percent) compared to 2023, and our total exports for the year exceeded 41 billion dollars. Our goal in 2025 is to sustain this growth. I thank all our officials, diplomats, and Ukrainian companies who secure our ties with the world. I especially thank every soldier and unit that ensures the security of our export routes in the Black Sea."

RELATIONS HAD BEEN SEVERED

On the other hand, Ukraine had severed diplomatic relations with Syria in June 2022 after the then-Bashar al-Assad government announced that it recognized the "independence" of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, which are under Russian occupation.