Syria’s President Al-Sharaa Arrives in Saudi Arabia on First Foreign Visit

Syria’s leader will hold talks with Saudi leadership on matters of mutual interest.

Sun Feb 02 2025
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RIYADH:  Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa arrived in Saudi Arabia on Sunday for his first foreign visit after assuming office following Bashar al-Assad’s ouster on December 8.

Al-Sharaa was received by Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz and several other officials upon arrival at King Khalid International Airport, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

The Syrian president is accompanied by the country’s foreign minister, Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani.

During his two-day trip, al-Sharaa is expected to hold discussions on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing key regional issues. Al-Sharaa will meet Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, SANA reported.

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Deputy Governor of Riyadh Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz (R) , Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa (L)—Photo by SPA

The visit comes amid Syria’s ongoing efforts to rebuild its global standing following years of political isolation.

Al-Sharaa was appointed Syria’s interim president, almost two months after his group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham toppled Bashar Al-Assad’s government.

Last month, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan visited Damascus and said the kingdom was engaged in talks with Europe and the US to help lift economic sanctions imposed on Syria that had decimated its economy.

Earlier, Syrian foreign minister Asaad Al-Shaibani visited Saudi Arabia and held important meetings with the Saudi leadership.

In December, a high-ranking Saudi delegation headed by an advisor to the Royal Court visited Syria and met with Al-Sharaa in Damascus.

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Deputy Governor of Riyadh Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz (R) , Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa (L)—Photo by SPA

Meanwhile, Ahmed Al-Sharaa during an interview with Al Arabiya said Saudi Arabia has a major role to play in the future of his country.

“Saudi Arabia has a major role in Syria’s future, and I take pride in everything it has done for us,” he said.

The Saudi Cabinet during a meeting also emphasised that Syria must be free from terrorism and any aggression against its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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