Xinjiang Issue Complicates China-Syria Reconstruction Talks

China has pledged to consider assisting Syria with its post-war reconstruction. The commitment came during a meeting in Beijing between China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Syrian counterpart, Asaad al-Shaibani, on November 17. Minister Wang stated that Beijing would "actively consider" providing reconstruction aid. He also emphasized that the two countries should gradually resume exchanges and cooperation. However, analysts identify a significant obstacle to deeper cooperation. Militant groups with links to China's Xinjiang region have become integrated into Syria's armed forces. Experts say this connection creates a major hurdle for the two governments. China must navigate this security concern before any substantial reconstruction partnership with Syria can move forward.