The region’s leaders were expected to set out a far-reaching foreign policy agenda focused on unity and joint action during Friday’s Arab League summit.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman began his address by calling for efforts to reduce conflict in the region.
“We assure friendly countries in the East and the West that we are moving forward in peace. We will no longer allow for our region to be a zone filled by conflicts and aggression. We have to open a new page following the past,” Crown Prince Mohammed said.
He also welcomed Syria’s President Bashar Al Assad back to the Arab League, adding that Riyadh hoped Syria’s return would mark the beginning of the end of the country’s 12-year civil conflict.
Mr Al Assad, who returns to the Arab fold following 12 years of isolation, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are also scheduled to address the body.
The Saudi Crown Prince again said the kingdom was willing to mediate between Russia and Ukraine.
“We express the kingdom’s readiness to continue mediating efforts between Russia and Ukraine and to support all international efforts aimed at resolving the crisis politically, in a way that contributes to achieving security and peace,” he said.
