Saudi Arabia has sent a high-profile delegation to Syria, Turkish state-run news agency Anadolu Agency reported Wednesday.
This comes as a Syrian Defense Ministry delegation was in Turkey, and Damascus is asking Turkey for support for its defensive forces.
Saudi Arabia has played a key role in helping Damascus engage with the US. Riyadh arranged a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. A Saudi delegation led by Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih arrived in Syria on Wednesday, Anadolu reported.
The “Saudi delegation arrived in Syria to sign economic agreements,” the report said.
“Saudi investment minister leads delegation of over 130 business figures to Damascus for forum, with Riyadh expected to sign agreements worth $4 billion,” the headline said.
While the report was short on details, it is important and indicates that countries including Turkey and Saudi Arabia all want Syria to succeed.
The US and Israel have been more critical of Damascus in the wake of the clashes in Sweida, but other countries think Syria can move forward. Israel bombed Damascus on July 15, and most countries in the region have condemned Israel’s actions.
Joint opportunities and promoting mutual economic interests
“The visit [of the Saudi delegation to Syria] will focus on exploring joint investment opportunities and signing deals to promote sustainable development and mutual economic interests between Riyadh and Damascus,” Anadolu reported, citing a report by Syrian Arab News Agency.
“The agenda includes a Saudi-Syrian investment forum and the launch of the Fayhaa White Cement Plant in the Adra Industrial City in rural Damascus,” Anadolu reported. “The Syrian state-run Al Ekhbariya channel reported that the visit aims to inaugurate a new era of investment between the kingdom and Syria, with Riyadh expected to sign agreements worth $4 billion.”
Sharaa had met the Saudis on Saturday, the report said.
The Saudi delegation also visited Damascus International Airport, Anadolu reported, adding that Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan had visited the Syrian capital in May.