# Argentina–Syria relations

Argentina–Syria relations refer to the bilateral relationship between the Argentine Republic and the Syrian Arab Republic. Argentina maintains an embassy in Damascus, and Syria has an embassy in Buenos Aires.
Both nations share a historically friendly relationship, with significant diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties, primarily driven by the large Syrian-Lebanese community in Argentina.

## Historical background

Informal ties between the countries date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when significant waves of Syrian immigrants arrived in Argentina as part of the broader Arab migration from the Ottoman Empire. These early Syrian migrants contributed to fostering closer relations between the two countries, forming a strong Syrian-Argentine community that has since played a key role in the relationship.
Argentina has traditionally maintained a neutral stance in the Middle East, focusing its diplomatic efforts on maintaining peaceful and cooperative relations with all countries in the region, including Syria.
Over the years, both nations have exchanged high-level visits aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, culture, and mutual assistance. In 2010, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad visited Argentina and met then President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner in Buenos Aires.

## Diplomatic relations

Diplomatic relations between Argentina and Syria were officially established on 23 November 1945. Argentina has an embassy in Damascus and Syria has an embassy in Buenos Aires, with honorary consulates in Córdoba, Rosario, Mandoza, Santiago del Estero, and Catamarca. Argentina and Syria cooperate within international organizations such as the United Nations and the G77.

### Relations during the Syrian Civil War

Since the outbreak of the Syrian Civil War in 2011, Argentina has called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict through diplomatic means. While Argentina has not been directly involved in the conflict, it has expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Syria and supported international efforts for a ceasefire and dialogue between the warring factions.
In May 2016, Argentine Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra paid a visit to Lebanon. During her visit, she met with various local organizations assisting refugees affected by the Syrian Civil War and visited a Syrian refugee camp close to the Lebanese-Syrian border. After that, the Argentine government implemented a humanitarian visa program aimed at providing refuge for Syrians affected by the war, allowing Syrian families to seek asylum in Argentina.

## Cultural and social ties

One of the most significant aspects of Argentina–Syria relations is the cultural and social connection facilitated by the Syrian diaspora in Argentina. The Syrian-Lebanese community in Argentina is one of the largest in Latin America, with over 3.5 million people of Syrian or Lebanese descent. This community has played an influential role in Argentine society, with notable figures in politics, business, and the arts.
Several cultural and social organizations in Argentina aim to preserve and promote Syrian culture, including the Club Sirio-Libanés in Buenos Aires, which regularly organizes cultural events, lectures, and celebrations.

## Economic relations

Trade between Argentina and Syria is modest but steady, with a focus on agricultural products. Argentina primarily exports wheat, corn, and other grains to Syria, while Syria exports smaller quantities of textiles, olive oil, and other agricultural goods to Argentina. Trade relations have been affected by the Syrian Civil War, which caused disruptions in Syria's economic activities and imports.