Beijing/ Damascus: Syrian authorities reportedly plan to hand over fighters from China’s Uyghur minority to Beijing, according to two sources who spoke to AFP on Monday, coinciding with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani’s first official visit to China.
The issue of Uyghur fighters was expected to feature prominently on al-Shaibani’s agenda in Beijing, a Syrian government source told AFP on condition of anonymity, adding that based on China’s request, Damascus intends to hand over the fighters in batches.
A diplomatic source in Syria, also speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that Syria intends to transfer 400 Uyghur fighters to China in the coming period, highlighting the growing cooperation between Damascus and Beijing on security matters.
However, the Syrian foreign ministry quickly moved to deny AFP’s report. Citing an official source, the state-run SANA news agency reported on Monday that the claims regarding the handover were unfounded and inaccurate. The denial underscores the sensitivity surrounding the issue of Uyghur fighters and the geopolitical implications of their possible transfer.
Observers note that any agreement to hand over Uyghur fighters would further strengthen Sino-Syrian security ties, while drawing international attention to the treatment of Uyghur nationals abroad. China has long sought the repatriation of Uyghurs it alleges are involved in militant activities, particularly in conflict zones such as Syria.
With al-Shaibani’s visit marking the first Syrian foreign ministerial trip to China in recent years, analysts say the discussions could encompass a broader security and economic cooperation agenda, amid shifting regional alliances.