• Syria's interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, arrives in Saudi Arabia for his first official visit.
• The trip signals a possible shift in Syria's alliances away from Iran.
• Al-Sharaa aims to garner financial and political support for Syria's reconstruction.
• The visit includes a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS).

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Syria's interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, made his inaugural trip abroad on Sunday, landing in Saudi Arabia in a significant diplomatic move that likely signals Damascus's pivot away from Iran as its principal regional partner. Accompanied by Syria's foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, al-Sharaa's arrival in Riyadh was marked by visibility on Saudi state television, celebrating the first trip of the leader known internationally by the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, following the recent overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad. The two men were seen aboard a Saudi jet, prominently displaying the Saudi flag behind them. Upon landing, a new three-star Syrian flag joined Saudi Arabia's at King Khalid International Airport.

Al-Sharaa's visit is not merely ceremonial; it embodies a strategic effort to reinforce ties with a key regional player after years of conflict. Saudi Arabia, previously a supporter of opposition factions against Assad, has been recalibrating its approach, especially since the December offensive led by al-Sharaa's Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group that has sought to dissociate from its al-Qaeda roots. The Saudi Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, previously visited Damascus, indicating a willingness to engage in dialogue for lifting crippling sanctions imposed on Syria, aiming to assist in rebuilding a war-torn nation.

Saudi Arabia’s renewed relationship with Syria may indeed pave the way for much-needed investments and reconstruction efforts to address the dire humanitarian needs of millions of impoverished Syrians. The meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is expected to yield discussions around financial promises that could play a vital role in the new Syrian government's stabilization and legitimization on the international stage. Additionally, both leaders are aware of the pressing challenges posed by groups such as the Islamic State in Syria, highlighted by recent violence in cities like Manbij.

Al-Sharaa’s focus on fostering a modern image for Syria includes promoting inclusivity, appointing women to positions of authority, and acknowledging the diverse religious and ethnic fabric of the nation. This trip is intended to underscore the importance of Saudi Arabia in Syria's future, as al-Sharaa has emphasized in his communications. His declarations hint at optimism regarding substantial investment opportunities that could arise from enhanced regional cooperation.

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