The reception of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Tripoli marked a significant event at the conclusion of his official visit to Lebanon on Thursday. The city's streets were transformed into a vibrant scene reflecting the widespread public enthusiasm for the visit, in addition to the official welcome he received from religious leaders and political and social figures.
Hundreds of citizens gathered at the entrances to Tripoli and around Dar al-Fatwa (the Sunni religious authority) to greet al-Shaibani. Participants waved Syrian and Lebanese flags and chanted welcoming slogans. The minister stepped out of his car to greet the crowds before proceeding to Dar al-Fatwa to continue his visit.
Photos and videos circulating online showed large crowds at the reception points, a scene described by observers as one of the highlights of the visit.
During the visit, al-Shaibani met with the Mufti of Tripoli and North Lebanon, Sheikh Muhammad Imam, and the Mufti of Akkar, Sheikh Zaid Bakkar Zakaria, as well as a number of members of parliament and religious, union, and social leaders. Discussions focused on issues of mutual interest and ways to strengthen cooperation between Syria and Lebanon.
Observers believe that the reception given to Shibani in Tripoli carried significance beyond mere protocol, demonstrating a clear popular response to the visit, particularly in a city with historical, social, and geographical ties to Syria.
Many also considered the large crowds that participated in the reception to reflect a desire among a segment of the city's population to support the path of openness and strengthen communication between the two countries.
This visit comes within the framework of diplomatic efforts aimed at developing Syrian-Lebanese relations, following meetings Shibani held in Beirut with senior Lebanese officials, before concluding his visit in Tripoli amidst a remarkable popular and official reception.
Thus, Shibani's reception in Tripoli became one of the most prominent events of the visit, carrying political and popular messages that underscore the importance of strengthening relations between the two countries and open the door to a new phase of cooperation and coordination on various shared issues.
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