Saudi Arabia officially reopened its embassy in Damascus on September 9, marking a significant step towards normalising relations between the two countries after years of diplomatic freeze, Syrian state news agency SANA reported.

The move is part of a broader regional realignment and signals a potential shift in Syria's diplomatic standing among Arab nations. Analysts suggest the move could pave the way for Syria's broader reintegration into the Arab fold. However, challenges remain in terms of international sanctions and political reconciliation after years of fighting and support by regional governments against the Assad regime.

Abdullah Al-Harith, the Saudi Chargé d'Affaires, emphasized the kingdom's commitment to developing bilateral relations with Syria during a reception held at Damascus's Four Seasons Hotel.

"This reopening represents an important moment in the history of relations between our two brotherly countries," Al-Harith said.

Syrian officials welcomed the move, with Ayman Raad, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, highlighting the "deep fraternal relations and social ties" between Syria and Saudi Arabia.

The resumption of diplomatic ties follows the reopening of Syria's embassy in Riyadh earlier this year, part of a gradual rapprochement between Damascus and its Arab neighbours.

Palestinian Ambassador to Damascus, Samir Al-Rifai, described the reopening as "a very important step towards the return of Arab relations," adding that Palestinians were particularly pleased with the development.

The event was attended by various Syrian officials, members of the People's Assembly, and representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in Syria.

This diplomatic shift comes after more than a decade of Syria's isolation from much of the Arab world following the outbreak of its civil war in 2011.

Earlier, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said on August 25 that despite mediation efforts by Russia, Iran and Iraq, there has been no progress in reconciliation between Syria and Turkey.

Speaking to the newly convened People's Council (Parliament), Assad stated, "Russia, Iran and Iraq have put forward initiatives for reconciliation with Turkey, and we responded positively to them, but no progress has been made, despite the sincerity of the mediators," as reported by RIA.