Syrian and US presidents had a phone conversation

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa held a phone call with US President Donald Trump, during which they discussed support for the Syrian economy and the latest regional developments, Sharaa's office confirmed on Sunday.

During the call, Sharaa said lifting the remaining US sanctions on Syria was an essential step toward reviving the Syrian economy and attracting investment, the statement said.

Lifting the sanctions would encourage investment in Syria, Sharaa said, and revitalize various economic and development projects.

Sharaa also emphasized the importance of prioritizing diplomacy in the region in order to prevent further escalation.

Both parties agreed on the importance of further coordination and communication between the two countries in order to support security and stability in the region.

Trump announced that the US Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, would remain in his position, despite earlier reports that he would step down.

Barrack would also retain his positions as the US Ambassador to Turkey and as Special Presidential Envoy to Iraq, Trump said.

He would be responsible for these three roles, Trump said, "as we advance our strategic cooperation with the Governments of Syria and Iraq, our relationship with them continues to grow!"