New Beginning: Syria's Foreign Minister Visits Saudi Arabia to Reset Regional Relations

Thursday 02 January 2025 - 11:00

Syria's newly appointed foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, has arrived in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in the country’s diplomatic history. This visit, taking place late Wednesday, is the first foreign trip by Syria's new leadership since the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad on December 8. Al-Shaibani, along with Syria’s Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and Head of the General Intelligence Service Anas Khattab, expressed hopes of opening a "new, bright page" in the relations between the two countries.

In his statement upon arrival, al-Shaibani emphasized the importance of this first official visit, highlighting the shared historical ties between Syria and Saudi Arabia. This visit comes just weeks after the former Syrian regime was ousted by rebel forces, signaling a shift in the political landscape.

Syria's interim government appointed al-Shaibani as foreign minister on December 21, making him the first high-ranking diplomat since the fall of al-Assad's regime. The Syrian delegation was welcomed by Saudi Arabia's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Waleed bin Abdulkarim El Khereiji, in Riyadh, underscoring the diplomatic significance of the visit. The presence of senior military officials further indicates the strategic importance of the meeting.

During an exclusive interview, al-Shaibani called for the lifting of Western sanctions on Syria, outlining his administration’s vision for the country’s future. His comments reflect a new diplomatic approach as Syria seeks to rebuild and re-establish its position in the regional and international spheres.

Former US diplomat Adam Clements noted that Saudi Arabia is eager to foster strong relations with the new Syrian leadership, especially as Iran's influence in Syria wanes. Clements highlighted Saudi Arabia’s potential role in Syria's reconstruction, particularly in sectors such as oil and fuel, where Gulf states could offer substantial support.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of the Syrian opposition group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), also emphasized the critical role that Riyadh would play in Syria's future. Al-Sharaa pointed to significant investment opportunities for neighboring countries, particularly in light of Syria’s devastated infrastructure and economy, which has been ravaged by more than 13 years of civil war.

Since the conflict began in 2011, Saudi Arabia has shifted its stance from supporting rebel groups to seeking a more active role in the region’s recovery. The country severed ties with al-Assad’s government in 2012 but, after Syria's readmission to the Arab League in 2023, is now exploring ways to engage with the new Syrian leadership.

As the Syrian delegation looks to foster stronger ties with the kingdom, it marks a crucial moment in the region's evolving political dynamics. With Saudi Arabia's involvement in Syria's reconstruction, the country is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Syria’s future.