Syria and the US have reached a preliminary agreement on the complete elimination of chemical weapons from Syrian territory and the potential integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into state institutions, according to an official statement from Damascus.

 

The announcement came following a high-level meeting between Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa and US ambassador to Turkey, who also serves as the envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, in Istanbul, held on the sidelines of Sharaa’s visit to Turkey on Friday.

 

Read more: US envoy meets with Syrian president after sanctions lifted

 

During the talks, the two sides discussed a range of key issues, including US sanctions on Syria. Sharaa emphasized that the ongoing sanctions continue to weigh heavily on the Syrian people and obstruct efforts toward economic recovery.

 

Barrack responded by noting that Washington has already begun easing sanctions in line with a directive from President Donald Trump, adding that the process is ongoing and aimed at full sanctions relief.

 

The meeting also touched on economic cooperation and reconstruction, with both sides exploring avenues to attract foreign investment—particularly in energy and infrastructure. Damascus expressed its readiness to offer the necessary incentives to support investors and create a stable environment for rebuilding efforts.

 

Sharaa reiterated Syria’s rejection of any attempts to divide the country, affirming his government’s commitment to national unity and sovereignty. Both parties underscored the importance of implementing the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Syria and "Israel" to maintain stability in southern Syria.

 

In a joint statement, the two sides agreed on the need for the complete elimination of chemical weapons in coordination with the international community and in accordance with international agreements. They also discussed enhancing security cooperation to address regional threats, including terrorism and border control, in pursuit of long-term stability in the region.