Thu Jan 02 07:36:13 UTC 2025: ## Syria’s New Government Seeks to Reset Relations with Saudi Arabia in Historic First Visit
**RIYADH, Saudi Arabia** – Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani, arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday for his first overseas visit since the ouster of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This marks a significant turning point in relations between the two countries, following over a decade of severed ties.
Al-Shaibani, accompanied by the Minister of Defence and the Head of the General Intelligence Service, stated his hope to “open a new, bright page” in Syrian-Saudi relations. The visit, described as historically significant, comes less than a month after rebel forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), removed al-Assad from power on December 8th. The delegation was invited by Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister.
The visit underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the region as Iran’s influence wanes in Syria. Adam Clements, a former US diplomat, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s strategic interests in forging strong ties with the new Syrian administration, particularly concerning reconstruction and economic support, including potentially addressing Syria’s dependence on Iranian oil and fuel.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of HTS, also emphasized Saudi Arabia’s crucial role in Syria’s future, indicating substantial investment opportunities for neighboring countries.
Syria’s economy and infrastructure have been ravaged by over 13 years of civil war. Saudi Arabia, which severed ties with al-Assad’s government in 2012 and initially supported Syrian rebels, recently participated in the Arab League’s readmission of Syria after a decade-long suspension. Al-Shaibani’s visit signals a potential new chapter in the relationship, with hopes for rebuilding ties and fostering cooperation.
First Piper 