On September 23, 2025, during the high-level week of the United Nations General Assembly, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a bilateral meeting with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa. The leaders discussed pathways to rebuild a stable and sovereign Syria, with Meloni emphasizing Italy’s commitment to development cooperation and economic investment.

The meeting highlighted Italy’s interest in supporting reconstruction through partnerships across key sectors, including infrastructure, energy, and education. Meloni also stressed the importance of inclusive governance, particularly the protection of minority communities such as Syrian Christians.

Both leaders agreed on the need to facilitate the safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees, reinforcing humanitarian priorities alongside political dialogue. The conversation underscored Italy’s broader role in promoting peace and resilience in the region.