Saudi Arabia and others are overlooking the new leadership’s jihadist past, hoping to gain an advantage on rivals in the strategically positioned country.

The two Mideast powerhouses have been trying to block the rise of Islamist groups in the region for two decades. The rebel takeover in Damascus will test that approach.

Turkey has a major role in Syria's reconstruction, and transport investments like railway links are on the agenda although Gulf money may prove vital. View on euronews

Syria's top diplomat said he hoped to open a "new, bright page" with Saudi Arabia upon arriving in the kingdom Wednesday, the first foreign visit for Syria's new rulers, who seized power last month."I have just arrived in the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,

By taking the lead in hosting Syria's new foreign minister, Riyadh is eying strategic opportunity to fill the US void, counter Iran’s waning influence and stabilize ties with Damascus through aid, partnerships and engagement with Islamist factions.

Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani leads Syrian delegation to Riyadh on 1st official visit, signaling potential for strengthened ties with Saudi Arabia - Anadolu Ajansı

A high-level delegation from Syria's transitional government visited Saudi Arabia on Thursday, marking their first foreign trip and signalling a warming of ties with the oil-rich monarchy. The team, including Syria's newly appointed Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani,

The newly appointed foreign minister in the Syrian interim administration established after the fall of Assad said he accepted an invitation from his Saudi counterpart to visit the kingdom, which would be his first official visit abroad.

Years of civil war and recent natural disasters have left Syrians greatly in need of humanitarian aid, and international relief flights have begun delivering assistance.

Syria's foreign and defence ministers visited Riyadh, marking the first diplomatic engagement with Saudi Arabia since the Syrian administration change in December. Discussions focused on Syria's political transition and reducing Iranian influence.

Asaad Hassan al-Shibani says he received an official invite from Riyadh amid visits by Arab officials to Damascus

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