The Syrian Future Movement follows with great appreciation and interest the significant diplomatic step represented by the opening of the Consulate General of the Syrian Arab Republic in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on Thursday, May 7, 2026. The opening ceremony was held under the auspices of the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Asaad Al-Shaibani, and in the presence of an official delegation from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This event is the culmination of deliberate efforts that led to the reopening of the consulate after a hiatus of approximately 14 years.
The Syrian Future Movement also closely monitors the activation of consular services through the “MOFA SY” application, in response to increasing complaints about difficulties in booking appointments and overcrowding at embassies. This initiative falls within the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ plan to expand its consular representation network and develop digital services.
The Syrian Future Movement values this step as a positive development that strengthens bilateral relations and serves common interests. The consulate is a vital link connecting Syrians to their homeland and facilitating their transactions. Its importance stems from serving more than 2.5 million Syrians and residents, according to official statements, or at least 700,000 according to UN estimates, who found safe haven in Saudi Arabia during the years of the revolution.
The Syrian Future Movement notes that this step comes within the context of an escalating trend of coordination and cooperation between the two countries. The past period has witnessed the signing of economic memoranda of understanding and high-level visits, the latest of which are the ongoing diplomatic communications between the two countries to coordinate positions on regional developments, laying the foundation for a comprehensive strategic partnership.
We believe that this path proves that political understandings translate into tangible achievements that improve the lives of citizens, which falls within the Syrian state’s commitments during the transitional phase to strengthen its regional role.
The Syrian Future Movement cautions against the pitfalls that may accompany this diplomatic expansion. International experience shows that the success of the diplomatic approach requires meticulous institutional management and financial and administrative transparency. The Syrian Future Movement also emphasizes the necessity for digital applications to be a hallmark of efficiency, not a gateway to new bureaucratic complexities or selective service delivery.
We also call for addressing the outstanding challenges in bilateral relations, such as the issue of the voluntary and dignified return of Syrian refugees, and ensuring they are not subjected to any pressure or threats in their host countries.
The Syrian Future Movement reiterates its firm and publicly stated positions on its official website, which affirm regional integration as a cornerstone of national stability. The Movement recalls the statement issued on January 20, 2026, by the Governor of Suwaida, calling for national reconciliation and advocating for constructive regional engagement.
We also refer to the statement issued on September 16, 2025, regarding the “Tripartite Agreement on Suwaida,” which calls for prioritizing dialogue to overcome the crises of the distant past.
The Syrian Future Movement reiterates its position as expressed in its statement on the International Day for the Right to the Truth, issued on March 24, 2026, emphasizing that building a victorious nation-state requires the support of its institutions, and that these consular institutions are an integral part of the strategy for reintegrating into Syria’s natural environment.
The Syrian Future Movement appreciates Saudi Arabia’s continued support for Syria and its people, which has manifested in substantial humanitarian aid and the welcoming of millions of Syrians to the Kingdom.
This support has also been demonstrated by the facilitation of consular procedures and the successful opening of this diplomatic mission.
The Syrian Future Movement highly values this fraternal stance, which contributes to improving the lives of Syrians abroad and reflects the spirit of Arab solidarity.
In conclusion, the Syrian Future Movement reaffirms its unwavering support for every effort that contributes to rebuilding a new Syria based on sovereignty, stability, and balanced regional engagement.
We call for this consulate to be a model of efficiency and transparency in the services provided, while continuing to work on addressing all outstanding issues to enhance mutual trust and achieve the strategic interests of the two brotherly countries and their peoples.
