Sat Feb 01 19:34:39 UTC 2025: ## Syria’s New Leader Heads to Saudi Arabia to Strengthen Ties
**RIYADH/DAMASCUS** – Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s newly appointed president of the transitional government, will embark on his first official foreign trip to Saudi Arabia this weekend, sources have confirmed. The two-day visit aims to bolster relations between the two countries following the recent change in leadership in Syria.
Al-Sharaa’s appointment followed a successful offensive by opposition forces against Bashar al-Assad last December. He has since been authorized to form a temporary legislative council to govern Syria until a new constitution is adopted.
The visit follows recent high-level diplomatic exchanges between the two nations. Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have already sent congratulatory messages to al-Sharaa, expressing their hopes for a successful transitional period. Furthermore, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan recently visited Damascus, pledging support for lifting international sanctions against Syria and highlighting Riyadh’s active dialogue with the US and EU on the matter. Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani also made a trip to Riyadh last month.
Al-Sharaa himself has previously emphasized Saudi Arabia’s significant role in Syria’s future and highlighted substantial investment opportunities for neighboring countries. This upcoming visit is expected to lay the groundwork for increased cooperation and investment in Syria’s rebuilding process.
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