Abkhazian Foreign Minister Oleg Bartsits Arrives in Syria for Working Visit

SUKHUM / AQW’A —  The Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Abkhazia, Oleg Bartsits, has arrived in the Syrian Arab Republic for a working visit aimed at bolstering bilateral ties, the Abkhaz Foreign Ministry’s press service has announced.

The delegation, which includes Acting Deputy Foreign Minister Irakli Tuzhba, was officially received at the border by Muhammad Ali, Abkhazia’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Syria. They were joined by officials from the Protocol and Europe Departments of the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the visit, high-level talks are scheduled with Syria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Dr. Asad Hasan al-Shaibani, and other senior government figures. According to diplomatic sources, discussions are set to cover a broad agenda, including enhancing political dialogue and deepening practical co-operation in trade, tourism, and higher education.

The visit underscores the established relationship between the two states. Syria is one of five UN member states to have recognised Abkhazia’s independence, extending formal recognition on 29 May 2018, which was followed by the mutual establishment of embassies.

Abkhaz officials note the current trip is intended to maintain positive momentum in Abkhaz-Syrian relations, with further outcomes from the talks expected to be announced later this week.