DAMASCUS - Syrian foreign affairs chief Asaad Hassan al-Shibani and visiting Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on Saturday highlighted growing bilateral cooperation and shared commitment to Syria's reconstruction after the lifting of international sanctions against Damascus.

At a joint press conference following a meeting between Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and a Saudi delegation, led by the foreign minister, al-Shibani expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its support "since the moment of liberation," particularly in backing Syria's reintegration into the international community and facilitating the recent easing of sanctions.

"Lifting the sanctions is only the beginning," al-Shibani said, noting that the interim Syrian government has already signed agreements with international firms to secure gas supplies for electricity generation. "We've taken serious steps to improve services for our people."

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Al-Shibani emphasized that Syria's reconstruction would be "decided by its people, not imposed from outside," and welcomed all contributions aimed at rebuilding the country.

He also underscored Syria's commitment to "economic sovereignty" and described the strength of the Syrian-Saudi partnership as rooted in shared interests.

For his part, the Saudi foreign minister said, "We look forward to building an even stronger partnership" with Syria.

He emphasized that the removal of sanctions would help jumpstart the Syrian economy and improve living conditions for ordinary Syrians.

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"Our contribution to lifting sanctions reaffirms our commitment to stand with Syria and its people," the minister said.

He added that Syria holds significant potential and its people are capable of "creativity, achievement, and rebuilding their homeland", a task Riyadh is ready to support.