Damascus: Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara engaged in discussions with Admiral Charles Bradley Cooper, Commander of the US Central Command, focusing on future cooperation in the political and military arenas. The meeting, held at the People's Palace in Damascus, was attended by their spouses, Latifa al-Droubi and Susan Cooper, alongside US Special Envoy to Syria Thomas Barrack.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the gathering included the US admiral's delegation and several Syrian ministers and senior officials. The Syrian presidency released a statement indicating that the discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation to serve common interests and strengthen security and stability in both Syria and the broader region.

The statement further highlighted the positive atmosphere of the meeting and the mutual desire to fortify the strategic partnership and broaden communication channels between Damascus and Washington. This meeting marks an ongoing effort to deepen ties at various levels.

Admiral Cooper, who took over as head of the US Central Command on August 9, replacing General Michael Kurilla, is at the forefront of these diplomatic and strategic discussions.