Syria’s Foreign Minister, Assaad al-Shibani, arrives in Saudi Arabia for the first diplomatic visit since recent political changes in Syria. He expresses hope for new relations between the countries, following significant shifts post-civil war. The visit includes high-level discussions reflecting a desire to restore ties and explore economic opportunities, particularly impacting Syria’s recovery.
On Wednesday, Syria’s Foreign Minister, Assaad al-Shibani, expressed hope for a fresh diplomatic chapter with Saudi Arabia as he commenced his inaugural foreign visit to the kingdom following recent political changes in Syria. Shibani, accompanied by high-ranking officials including the Minister of Defence Murhaf Abu Qasra and the Head of the General Intelligence Service Anas Khattab, emphasized, “Through this first visit in the history of Free Syria, we aspire to open a new, bright page in Syrian-Saudi relations that befits the long shared history between the two countries.” The delegation, which had arrived at the invitation of Saudi Foreign Minister Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji, received a formal reception at Riyadh’s international airport. This high-level interaction follows Saudi Arabia’s earlier engagement with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, reflecting shifting relations between the two nations after a prolonged period of discord during the Syrian civil war.
The strained relationship between Syria and Saudi Arabia has evolved significantly since the start of the Syrian civil war over thirteen years ago. Initially, Saudi Arabia severed ties with Bashar al-Assad’s government in 2012, supporting opposition forces aiming to disrupt his regime. However, with recent developments, including Saudi Arabia’s re-establishment of diplomatic relations with Assad’s government and Syria’s subsequent return to the Arab League, signs of reconciliation have surfaced. The current visit underscores Syria’s aspiration to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia, potentially leading to economic cooperation amidst the backdrop of a devastated Syrian economy due to prolonged conflict.
The recent visit by Syria’s top diplomat to Saudi Arabia marks an important step towards renewing bilateral relations following years of tensions. As both nations seek to enhance their diplomatic and economic cooperation, the visit highlights the potential for a new era in Syrian-Saudi relations, with expectations of mutual benefits stemming from improved ties. The evolving dynamics in the region, catalyzed by recent political changes in Syria, suggest a pivotal moment for the two previously estranged nations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
