Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani visited Saudi Arabia, the first official trip by the new Syrian government post-Assad. This visit aims to enhance Syrian-Saudi relations and address regional cooperation and investment opportunities amidst Syria’s recovery from civil war. Saudi Arabia’s role is pivotal as they seek to manage issues such as drug trafficking from Syria.
Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani made his inaugural visit to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, marking the first official travel by members of the newly established Syrian government following the removal of former president Bashar Al Assad a month ago. In a statement made via X, Mr. Al Shibani noted, “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.”
Accompanied by Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and Head of the General Intelligence Service Anas Khattab, Mr. Al Shibani aims to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia, which has extended support following the leadership transition in Syria. This visit comes as regional and Western nations engage with Syria’s new leadership, under Ahmad Al Shara, leader of Hayat Tahrir Al Sham, now recognized for its role in deposing Mr. Al Assad on December 8.
Saudi Arabia had previously severed relations with Mr. Al Assad’s government in 2012 but reestablished contact last year, playing a crucial role in Syria’s reintegration into the Arab League. The visit of Mr. Al Shibani, which was initiated at the invitation of Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, includes discussions on regional cooperation and opportunities for investment in Syria’s recovering economy, which has suffered devastating consequences from over a decade of civil conflict that ignited in 2011. Saudi officials have also expressed concerns regarding the export of Captagon, a narcotic that became a significant export during Mr. Al Assad’s regime.
The article highlights a significant diplomatic event where Syria’s new leadership engages in its first official visit to Saudi Arabia, reflecting a shift in regional relationships following the fall of Bashar Al Assad’s government. With over 13 years of bloody civil war, Syria has faced immense challenges including economic collapse and infrastructure devastation. The invitation and support from Saudi Arabia underline a regional desire to stabilize and rejuvenate Syria post-conflict, aiming for a collaborative future, whilst also addressing critical issues like drug trafficking from the country.
In conclusion, Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a hopeful new chapter in Syrian-Saudi relations. The engagement with Gulf countries illustrates a collective effort toward regional stability and economic revival in Syria, while also addressing significant concerns about drug exports. With support from neighboring nations, Syria may find a pathway towards reconstruction and reintegration into the Arab community.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
