READOUT: Ranking Member Shaheen’s Meeting with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa

NEW YORK CITY - On Monday, September 21, 2026, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, met with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa on the sidelines the 2026 United Nations General Assembly High Level Week.

Ranking Member Shaheen discussed continued progress in the U.S.-Syria relationship and highlighted Congress' successful repeal of Assad-era Caesar Act sanctions, which she secured to give the Syrian people a viable opportunity to rebuild after decades of war and dictatorship. She welcomed the State Department's formal removal of Syria from the State Sponsor of Terrorism list and underscored that responsible American and allied investment can support Syria's economic recovery and reduce its dependence on Russia, Iran and China.

The Senator emphasized that Syria's recovery must be accompanied by inclusive governance, protection for all ethnic and religious communities and meaningful opportunities for women to participate in the country's future. She also discussed full implementation of the permanent ceasefire and integration agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces, continued cooperation to defeat ISIS and the importance of peaceful relations with Syria's neighbors.

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