India has taken its first step to reconnect with Syria’s new government, now led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former militant leader. This marks the first official visit by India since al-Sharaa came to power in December 2024, replacing Syria’s longtime president Bashar al-Assad.
Suresh Kumar, a senior officer from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, travelled to Syria’s capital, Damascus, for talks with Syrian ministers. The Indian government hasn’t made a public statement yet, but Syria’s national news agency, SANA, shared details of the visit.
Kumar met Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani and Health Minister Musab Al-Ali. Both sides talked about working more closely together in areas like education, healthcare, medicine, and training. One of the key topics was giving scholarships to Syrian students and offering special training programs for Syrian government workers.
Syria’s health minister said the country wants to build a strong partnership with India, especially to improve its health system and medicine production. Kumar said India will continue helping Syria by training doctors and nurses, supporting hospitals, and sending medicines.
An Indian official, speaking anonymously, said the visit was important. “A beginning had to be made and India had to register its presence. You have to open the door at some point,” the person said.
India and Syria have had a close relationship for many years. They were both part of the Non-Aligned Movement and have supported each other on important international issues. India has supported Syria’s claim over the Golan Heights, and Syria has backed India in global forums, including on the Kashmir issue.
India has also helped Syria in tough times. In 2021, India sent 2,000 tonnes of rice to Syria as food aid. During the COVID-19 crisis, India sent 10 tonnes of medicines — the largest medical support Syria received from any country at that time.
India’s recent outreach comes after the United States ended its sanctions on Syria, following a meeting between al-Sharaa and U.S. President Donald Trump in May 2025. With Syria being an important country in the West Asian region, India’s visit shows it wants to stay involved and continue its long-standing friendship, even under the new leadership.
