Ahmed al‑Sharaa, president of Syria, on Syria’s future

Speaking at Chatham House in his first public event in the United Kingdom, President Ahmed al‑Sharaa set out his vision for Syria at a moment of significant regional upheaval. Since taking office after the fall of the Assad regime in late 2024, his government has faced the immense task of rebuilding a country devastated by more than a decade of civil war. Alongside domestic reconstruction, the administration has pursued a new diplomatic course. As Syria seeks to re‑engage with the international community after years of isolation, it must also navigate an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape. In this address, President al‑Sharaa is expected to discuss where the country’s transition currently stands, his hopes for Syria’s political and economic future, the country’s stance in the current Middle East conflict, and how Syrian leadership plans to manage shifting regional dynamics while building a more stable, inclusive and accountable state. Chatham House is a London-based international affairs think-tank. Our mission is to address geopolitical challenges and international problems. We do this by providing independent analysis and advice, and convening meetings of the people and organisations that can bring about change. #syria #chathamhouse