The story: After hosting Syria’s chief diplomat, Saudi Arabia has sent its foreign minister to Damascus for the first time in over a decade. This comes as the two sides have “welcomed the start of procedures” to resume consular services and flights. However, following a meeting of regional foreign ministers in Jeddah, Gulf Arab states remain divided over the normalization of ties with Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad.

The coverage: Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud arrived in Damascus on Apr. 18, where he met with President Assad.

• According to an Apr. 18 readout published by Syrian state media, Assad stressed that “sound” bilateral relations “are the natural state…and these relations do not only constitute an interest for the two countries, but also reflect an Arab and regional interest.” 

• The Syrian president also welcomed “the role of brotherly Arabs for several reasons, among them supporting the Syrian people...