(MENAFN) On Sunday, Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for an official visit, accompanied by his wife Asma Al-Assad. The visit was reported by the Emirates News Agency (WAM), which stated that Al-Assad was received by the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan upon their arrival at the presidential airport in Abu Dhabi.
According to reports, the UAE President held “constructive talks” with his Syrian counterpart, aimed at developing relations between the two countries. He also stated that the discussions explored ways of enhancing cooperation to accelerate stability and progress in Syria and the region.
The visit is seen as a significant development in the Syrian conflict, as the UAE was among the Gulf states that cut diplomatic ties with Syria and supported opposition groups during the early stages of the war. However, recent reports suggest that the UAE has been seeking to restore ties with the Syrian government in an attempt to counter Iranian influence in the region.
The welcoming of Al-Assad in an official ceremony where the Syrian national anthem was played and receiving a canon salute as his convoy entered Qasr Al Watan, highlights the significance of the visit for the UAE. Al-Assad's plane was also greeted by Emirati fighter jets.
It is worth noting that Al-Assad's visit to the UAE comes as his government is facing mounting pressure from the international community over its human rights abuses and the ongoing conflict in Syria. The Syrian president's visit to the UAE is likely an attempt to build support and legitimacy for his government on the world stage, as well as to strengthen ties with a regional ally.
The UAE has been a key player in regional politics and has been involved in several conflicts in the Middle East, including the ongoing war in Yemen.
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