Earlier this year, India dispatched a 1,400-kilogram consignment of anti-cancer drugs as humanitarian assistance
India and Syria held the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in New Delhi on Friday (November 29, 2024), marking a renewed commitment to enhancing bilateral ties. 

Led by Suresh Kumar, Joint Secretary (WANA), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India, and Ayman Raad, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Syria, the dialogue encompassed a comprehensive review of India-Syria relations and explored opportunities for deeper collaboration across key sectors.

Focus Areas: Pharmaceuticals, Development, and Capacity Building
During the discussions, both sides emphasised the importance of expanding bilateral collaboration across key areas. Special attention was given to sectors like pharmaceuticals, developmental partnerships, and capacity building, reflecting shared priorities for economic and social development. These discussions are expected to strengthen Syria's resilience in critical areas, leveraging India's expertise and resources.

“The discussions reviewed the entire range of India-Syria bilateral relations with a renewed commitment to energise the institutional mechanisms between the two countries,” the MEA stated. “Both sides also discussed avenues to deepen the bilateral relationship with a special focus on pharmaceuticals, developmental partnership, and capacity building.”

Beyond bilateral matters, the consultations included an exchange of perspectives on pressing regional and global issues of mutual interest. Both nations reaffirmed their alignment on key international concerns and their willingness to cooperate on multilateral platforms.

India and Syria have long shared warm and friendly ties rooted in historic and civilizational connections. Over the years, India has actively contributed to Syria's development, focusing on areas like infrastructure, education, and capacity building for Syrian youth.
Under the “Study in India” programme, a total of 1500 seats have been offered to Syrian students for Under-Graduate, Masters and Ph.D. programmes in four phases since 2017-18, with emphasis on technical and managerial capacity building of Syrian youth. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) also offers 25 scholarships to pursue various bachelors, masters and doctorate programmes in reputed Universities in India. 

Earlier this year, India demonstrated its solidarity with Syria by dispatching a 1,400-kilogram consignment of anti-cancer drugs as humanitarian assistance. Last year, In the wake of the devastating earthquake in Syria on February 6, 2023, India had sent two special flights containing 30 tonnes of relief material. These gestures underscored India's dedication to supporting Syria during challenging times and reinforced the mutual respect and cooperation between the two nations.

Expanding Trade and Economic Cooperation
One of the key aspects of the discussions during the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations was the emphasis on enhancing trade and economic cooperation between India and Syria. Both countries recognized the untapped potential in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and technology. India's globally recognized pharmaceutical industry, in particular, was highlighted as a valuable resource to address Syria's healthcare challenges, especially in the wake of ongoing humanitarian needs.

India's rich cultural heritage and Syria’s historic significance provide a unique platform for cultural collaboration. Both sides agreed to explore new initiatives to promote cultural diplomacy, further enriching the long-standing civilizational ties between the two nations.

In addition, the dialogue explored avenues for expanding economic ties through investment in infrastructure and technology-driven industries. These collaborations aim to not only boost bilateral trade but also create employment opportunities and drive sustainable development in Syria. In the past, India has assisted Syria in carrying out a feasibility study on augmentation of its phosphate production. 

The talks concluded on a positive note, with both sides agreeing to hold the next round of Foreign Office Consultations in Syria on a mutually convenient date.