Ukraine hopes that the new Syria will become a state that will respect international law, in particular the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, who arrived in Damascus on a visit.

"Under Moscow's influence, the Assad regime recognized Russia's attempt to annex Crimea and the temporary occupation of parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions. This forced Ukraine to sever diplomatic relations with the regime in 2022. We proceed from the fact that the new Syria will become a state that will respect international law, in particular the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine," he said at a briefing in Damascus on Monday.

He also expressed hope that "mutual recognition of territorial integrity and sovereignty will pave the way for the resumption of diplomatic relations, political dialogue and the work of diplomatic institutions."

"We are ready and waiting for reciprocal steps from the Syrian side," said Sybiha.

According to him, the resumption of diplomatic presence will allow for increased trade, cooperation in science, technology, culture and education.