RIYADH — Key Arab and international figures convened in Riyadh for critical meetings on the future of Syria, focusing on humanitarian and political support one month after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan chaired the Arab foreign ministers' meeting, which included the Arab League Secretary-General, the Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General, and top diplomats from Egypt, Syria, Qatar, the UAE, Jordan, Oman, Lebanon, and Bahrain. Western foreign ministers and the UN special envoy to Syria are set to join the discussions later, alongside the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock highlighted the opportunity for unified international action to rebuild Syria, calling for a Syrian-led political process. Speaking to reporters, she said, "A united effort for fair dialogue and reconstruction offers hope for the Syrian people." British Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized his country's support for Syria's transitional government. Lammy stressed the need for inclusive governance, humanitarian aid, and measures to counter chemical weapons and ISIS threats. "The international community must unite to back the Syrian people as they build a democratic and diverse nation," he said, announcing plans to meet with Prince Faisal bin Farhan and other regional leaders. Saudi officials reiterated their commitment to supporting Syria, stating that the aid bridge will remain open until humanitarian stability is achieved, under the guidance of the Saudi leadership. This meeting follows the December summit in Aqaba, Jordan, where the Ministerial Contact Committee affirmed their commitment to standing by the Syrian people during this transformative period.
