Friends Again

King Abdullah’s visit to Syria solidifies rapprochement

A recent visit by  King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia to Damascus culminates a strengthening of ties between the two Arab states. This two day trip is the first visit King Abdullah is making to Syria since taking the throne in 2005.

The visit has been widely interpreted as an important sign of the strengthening of relations between the two countries.  It follows a recent visit to Saudi Arabia by the Syrian president to attend the opening of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

Relations between the two countries had deteriorated significantly over the 2003 invasion of Iraq and the 2005 assassination of Lebanese leader Rafiq Hariri who had strong ties to Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has also been at odds with Syria in the past for the country’s ties to Iran.  This culminated a tension that existed between the two states, both of which have been long time rivals for influence in the region.

The tense situation between the two states, however, began to improve in July when Riyadh sent an ambassador to Syria, after having left the post empty for one year. It was also strengthened by Syria’s respect for the Lebanese elections which led to the victory of Saad Hariri, Rafiq Hariri’s son.   

The Syrian news agency, SANA, said the two sides have expressed happiness over the level of coordination and consultation between the two countries. This event may signal an important change to the past deadlock that characterized Arab foreign policy.  Analysts have noted this event may have immense implications on Hamas and Palestinian territory, but most importantly, it could give renewed force to the Arab Peace Initiative which was begun by King Abdullah.