Syrian Official: Assad to Attend Arab Summit

A senior Syrian official affirmed on Wednesday that Syrian President Bashar Assad will be in Jeddah to take part in Friday’s Arab League summit.

Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Susan, said in remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat that “Syrian President Bashar Assad will be present in Jeddah”.

For the first time in 12 years, Syria will participate in the preparatory meeting of senior officials for the Arab League Summit, scheduled to be held in Saudi Arabia on 19 May.

Susan said it is common sense to have the summit held in politically-moderate Saudi Arabia.

In his remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, Susan said that everyone wants the summit to be a prelude for a new phase.

“The importance of holding the summit in Saudi Arabia is unquestionable because it is evident and clear. Saudi Arabia, with its weight and moderate policies, everyone hopes that the Jeddah summit would pave the way for a new phase amid atmospheres of optimism.”