In a diplomatic move underscoring the ongoing normalization of Arab relations with Damascus, His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, received the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Dr. Asaad al-Shaibani, in Riyadh on Monday. This meeting comes within the framework of regional efforts aimed at finding sustainable solutions to the Syrian crisis and addressing its humanitarian, security, and economic repercussions.
During the meeting, a comprehensive review of bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries was conducted, and ways to strengthen and develop them in various fields were discussed. The talks also focused on the latest developments in Syria, including mechanisms to support Syria's security and stability, and ways to boost the economy to fulfill the aspirations of the brotherly Syrian people for a dignified life and prosperity.
Historical context for the return of relations
This meeting is a new link in a chain of diplomatic moves that have been accelerating since 2023, which saw Syria return to its seat in the Arab League after its membership was suspended for more than a decade since the outbreak of the crisis in 2011. Saudi Arabia, along with other Arab countries, has led intensive efforts to end Damascus’s diplomatic isolation, based on the conviction that the solution to the Syrian crisis must be Arab and from within the region, to address the root causes of the security and political problems affecting the entire regional neighborhood.
Strategic importance and impact of the meeting
The significance of this meeting lies in its reinforcement of the Arab approach based on the principle of "step-by-step" progress, which aims to achieve tangible progress on complex issues. On the Syrian domestic front , this rapprochement could pave the way for Saudi economic support that contributes to reconstruction projects and the rehabilitation of infrastructure destroyed by years of war, thus alleviating the humanitarian suffering of the Syrian people. Regionally , this cooperation aims to address shared security challenges, most notably combating drug trafficking, particularly of Captagon pills, securing borders, and working to create the conditions conducive to the safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees to their homes. Internationally , these efforts offer an alternative to the approach based on sanctions and isolation, and underscore that political solutions led by regional actors may be more effective in achieving the desired stability.
The reception was attended on the Saudi side by Prince Musab bin Mohammed Al-Farhan, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, and Ambassador Dr. Saud Al-Sati, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, reflecting the great importance that the Kingdom attaches to this diplomatic track.
