Al-Shibani in Baghdad representing Syria's Al-Sharaa
Al-Shibani is representing Syria's transitional President, Ahmad al-Sharaa, who was officially invited by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. The invitation, however, triggered a fierce political uproar in Iraq, with multiple factions openly rejecting al-Sharaa's involvement and several lawmakers launching legal action against him.
Earlier on Friday, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas touched down in Baghdad to join the summit, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres had arrived the night before, adding to the roster of prominent international figures attending the event.
Baghdad completed all preparations for hosting the summit on Saturday, underscoring Iraq's efforts to solidify its regional diplomatic role amid ongoing political, security, and economic challenges in the region.
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