Syria's new administration head Ahmad al-Sharaa met Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on January 10, as the country seeks to rebuild international ties, local Al Watan reported.

The top Italian visit follows several other European and West Asian leaders visiting the new leadership in Damascus as part of re-engagement with the new regime following the collapse of the former Assad regime on December 8. Italy is looking to see how it can assist in the country's reconstruction.

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Sheibani announced plans for a landmark national conference aimed at ensuring "a smooth and comprehensive political transition" with participation from all Syrian factions, promising accountability for crimes committed against the Syrian people.

"We affirm our commitment to principles promoting freedom for all Syrians, regardless of their sectarian, ethnic or religious affiliations," al-Sheibani said at a joint press conference with Tajani.

He said protecting these rights would be "the fundamental pillar of Syria's unity and stability."

The Syrian minister announced plans to lead a high-level delegation to several European countries, signalling efforts to rebuild diplomatic relations.

He also pledged to end practices associated with the former regime, including drug trafficking and regional destabilisation.

Tajani expressed Italy's readiness to support Syria's economic and social recovery, citing historical ties between the Mediterranean nations.

Tajani previously presided over a meeting in Rome on December 9 with other European countries and the US after speaking with counterparts from Turkey and Saudi Arabia.

"The first messages from Damascus have been positive. That´s why I´m going there tomorrow, to encourage this new phase that will help stabilise the international situation," Tajani said, AFP previously reported.