Riyadh, January 3, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic meeting held in Riyadh, Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Minister of Defense of Saudi Arabia, welcomed the new Syrian administration’s top officials for an in-depth discussion on the latest developments in Syria. The meeting included Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani, the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murhaf Abu Qasra, the Syrian Minister of Defense, and Anas Khattab, the Head of Syria’s General Intelligence Service.
The discussions revolved around the current situation in Syria and focused on ways to support the transitional political process that is essential to fulfilling the aspirations of the Syrian people. The parties also emphasized the importance of ensuring Syria's security, stability, and territorial integrity as the country navigates a period of transformation. The meeting aimed to establish a collaborative framework that would help secure lasting peace and foster the necessary political and social progress within Syria.
Attending the meeting alongside Prince Khalid bin Salman were key figures in Saudi Arabia’s defense and intelligence sectors, including Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Prince Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Ayyaf, Deputy Minister of Defense; and General Khalid bin Ali Al-Humaidan, Chief of General Intelligence. Additionally, General Fayyad Al-Ruwaili, Chief of General Staff, and Hisham bin Abdulaziz bin Saif, Director-General of the Minister of Defense’s Office, were present to provide their expertise on matters of national and regional security.
The Syrian delegation also included key assistants to the Foreign Minister, focusing on Arabian affairs and humanitarian matters, underscoring the importance of humanitarian concerns in the ongoing dialogue. This meeting reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to supporting the stability and prosperity of its regional neighbors and its proactive role in facilitating constructive dialogue to help guide Syria through its complex transitional phase.
Both sides expressed their determination to strengthen bilateral ties and collaborate on addressing regional challenges. The meeting marked an important step toward forging closer cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Syria in the pursuit of long-term peace and regional stability.
