President Ahmad al-Sharaa is playing “basketball diplomacy” with his Washington and Moscow visits.
His recent visits to Washington and Moscow are part of a broader initiative to reshape Syria’s regional standing and foster economic recovery. The strategy, known as ‘basketball diplomacy,’ is rooted in a blend of informality, agility, and personal rapport. The approach symbolizes his and Foreign Minister Assad al-Shaibani’s shared passion for basketball, which has been showcased in viral videos. This tactic aims to demonstrate Syria as a state capable of reshaping its regional security architecture and fostering a diplomatic balance with both major powers.
The new Syrian leadership seeks to project an image of reclaiming agency, moving away from its traumatic past and towards a more pragmatic and predictable diplomatic engagement.
His efforts to balance relations with the United States and Russia are part of a larger goal to secure international legitimacy and stabilize the nation. The strategic approach reflects the complexities of international relations and highlights Syria’s aspiration to navigate the global stage with an emphasis on mutual benefit and stability.