The Syrian Embassy in Saudi Arabia has resumed its operations, marking a significant development in diplomatic relations between the two countries. Ahsan Ruman, the new Syrian diplomatic representative in Saudi Arabia, arrived in Riyadh, and he expressed the embassy's commitment to serving Syrians and the Syrian diaspora in Saudi Arabia. Although reopening the embassy after more than a decade of closure will require some effort, it signifies a positive step towards enhancing diplomatic ties.
This decision follows Saudi Arabia's announcement of reopening its embassy in Damascus, reciprocating Syria's gesture. It was reported that both countries have agreed on diplomats who will serve at their respective embassies, indicating progress in normalizing relations. Saudi Arabia had previously refused to appoint an ambassador to Syria and had rejected proposed diplomats for the Syrian embassy in Riyadh, reflecting the complexities involved in restoring diplomatic relations.
During the Syrian civil war, many Arab nations withdrew their ambassadors and imposed economic sanctions on Syria due to its failure to meet their demands in favor of the opposition. Some countries, including Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman, have since reopened their diplomatic missions in Damascus. Saudi Arabia's decision to reopen its embassy was influenced by Syria's efforts to normalize relations with other Arab nations.
In May, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad attended the Arab League summit in Jeddah for the first time since 2010, marking a significant diplomatic reengagement. The Arab League Council also decided to reinstate Syria's full membership in the organization, which had been suspended in 2011. These developments indicate a positive shift in regional diplomacy and a potential path toward improved relations between Syria and its Arab neighbors.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Based on materials from TASS