A former U.S. president concluded a high-profile visit to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, marked by symbolic moments and a notable meeting with Syria’s interim leader.

Before departure, the former U.S. leader was accompanied to the tarmac by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince, who remained until the guest boarded his aircraft. The two exchanged respectful gestures, including a wave and a hand-over-heart salute, highlighting the cordial tone of the visit.

During the trip, the former president also held talks with Syria’s acting head of state, Ahmad al-Sharaa. Once viewed as a controversial figure due to past associations, al-Sharaa’s recent emergence as a transitional leader has drawn international attention. Several European leaders have also initiated engagement with the new Syrian administration in recent months.

The meeting is seen as a potential step toward Syria reestablishing ties with the international community after years of isolation stemming from the country’s prolonged civil conflict.

According to an official statement, the U.S. delegation encouraged Syrian leadership to consider aligning with regional peace initiatives, including a framework aimed at normalizing relations between countries in the Middle East.

The visit underlined ongoing diplomatic shifts in the region and efforts to promote long-term stability and cooperation.

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