Syria Foreign Minister’s Visit to Saudi Arabia Aims for Renewed Relations
Syria’s Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani has embarked on a significant visit to Saudi Arabia, aiming to improve relations between the two countries. This visit follows a history of diplomatic tension, primarily due to Syria’s civil war, and symbolizes a new phase of cooperation. Key officials joined the minister, and discussions focused on fostering economic partnerships and addressing shared challenges, particularly regarding narcotics trade.
Damascus (AFP) – Following a turbulent history, Syria’s new leaders have embarked on a diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia, marking their first foreign visit since seizing power. On Wednesday, Syria’s Foreign Minister, Assaad al-Shibani, expressed hope for improved relations, stating, “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.” This visit was at the invitation of the Saudi foreign minister, purportedly aimed at mending ties strained due to Syria’s civil conflict.
The Syrian delegation included key officials, such as Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and Head of the General Intelligence Service Anas Khattab, and was received at Riyadh’s international airport by Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji. Meetings were documented with photos, indicating a formal engagement between the two nations.
This meeting follows a recent visit by a Saudi delegation to Syria, aimed at revitalizing diplomatic ties. Notably, Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has communicated that Saudi Arabia intends to play a significant role in Syria’s future, hinting at potential investment opportunities in a war-torn nation that has suffered extensively over the past 13 years. Saudi Arabia’s previous support for anti-Assad factions has shifted, evident in the renewed recognition of Syrian governance and its pivotal role in Syria’s reintegration into the Arab League.
Additionally, the backdrop of the meeting highlights a complex interaction regarding the narcotics trade, with Saudi Arabia becoming a significant market for captagon, a drug that has proliferated in Syria amid the ongoing crisis. As the country grapples with its identity and future following civil unrest, these diplomatic overtures are vital for fostering stability and economic recovery in the region.
The relationship between Syria and Saudi Arabia has been fraught with tension, particularly following the Syrian civil war that erupted in 2011. Saudi Arabia initially severed ties with President Bashar al-Assad’s regime due to its oppressive responses to pro-democracy protests. With the civil war leading to a humanitarian crisis and the emergence of various rebel groups, Saudi Arabia supported factions opposing Assad. However, in a significant shift last year, Saudi Arabia reinstated diplomatic relations with the Assad government, facilitating Syria’s return to the Arab League, thereby signaling a desire to foster collaboration for regional stability and economic revitalization after years of devastation.
The initial visit by Syria’s foreign minister to Saudi Arabia symbolizes a pivotal moment for both countries, aiming to establish a more amicable relationship. As Syria continues to navigate its post-war challenges, the engagement with Saudi Arabia could pave the way for crucial economic partnerships and regional stability. The historical context of their interactions underscores the complexity of Middle Eastern politics, with the potential for future investment and collaborative recovery efforts serving as key points to watch in the evolving diplomatic landscape.
Original Source: www.france24.com
