**DAMASCUS/ISTANBUL**
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) announced Wednesday that Syria has regained its full membership after years of being suspended.
The decision was described as a “step that enhances cultural and scientific cooperation between Syria and Islamic countries,” according to Syria’s news agency, SANA.
ICESCO, an international organization operating under the umbrella of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation OIC, aims to promote cooperation among member states in education, science and culture.
SANA said the announcement was made during a virtual meeting between Syria’s Director-General of Antiquities and Museums, Anas Haj Zidane, and ICESCO representatives.
Bilal Al-Shabi, an ICESCO program specialist, emphasized the significance of Syria’s return to the organization, stating that “this step reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting member states in protecting their cultural and scientific heritage.”
He said a technical mission will soon visit Syria to assess archaeological sites and museums to formulate a joint action plan to support efforts in preserving Syrian cultural heritage and evaluating the technical and logistical needs of the Directorate of Antiquities and Museums.
Zidane welcomed the move that will “open new avenues for cooperation in heritage and cultural fields.”
He was optimistic that the technical mission’s visit would strengthen preservation efforts, particularly given the challenges Syria faces because of the war.
Since the fall of the Assad regime, the new Syrian administration has sought to engage with international and regional organizations to enhance its presence and advance its interests in the global arena.
Bashar Assad, Syria’s leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8, ending the Baath Party regime, which had been in power since 1963.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led anti-regime forces to oust Assad, was declared president Jan. 29 for a transitional period.
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