UAE top official calls for end to war, chaos in Syria after Assad visit
Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE’s president, has called for an end to the war and destruction in Syria, amid rapprochement between Arab states and Damascus.
In a tweet, Gargash reiterated his country's support for "the return of Syria to its environment", noting that this was confirmed by the UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan during his Sunday meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
"A decade and a half of war, violence and destruction is enough and it's time to enhance cooperation and solidarity among our Arab countries to ensure the stability and prosperity of the region," Gargash said.
Syria's membership in the Arab League was suspended following the eruption of a foreign-backed militancy in the country in 2011.
"The UAE's approach and efforts towards brotherly Syria are part of a deeper vision and a broader approach aimed at strengthening Arab and regional stability and overcoming difficult years of confrontation," Gargash added.
Saudi Arabia to reopen consulate in Damascus soon
Amid rapprochement between Arab states and Syria, reports said Saudi Arabia will reopen its consulate in the Syrian capital, Damascus, soon.
Russia's Sputnik news agency cited sources as saying that the diplomatic breakthrough is brokered by Russia and the UAE .
According to the report, the consulate is expected to reopen after Eid al-Fitr, which will be celebrated late in April.
The sources said the reopening will be preceded by a visit by the Saudi foreign ministry to Damascus to meet President al-Assad and Syrian officials.
Saudi Arabia closed its embassy in Damascus and withdrew all diplomats in March 2012.
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