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In March 2022, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad met Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi. The visit is Assad’s first state visit to the UAE since the beginning of the conflict in Syria in 2011. This can be seen as a geopolitical breakthroughs for the peace of Middle-East.
Historical Context
Syria is a long time ally of Russia and rebellion in Syria are supported by Turkey (against Kurds of Syria), US (against ISIL) and Israel to some extent to safeguard annexed Golan heights of Syria. UAE sheikhs are businessmen and they have understood that their economy would survive when there will be peace in the country.
Trump persuaded UAE for peace with Israel and accordingly UAE shifted its strategy after Abraham accord with Israel, US and Bahrain. UAE recognized Israel also. Now they are balancing global geopolitical power Russia and US. UAE abstained voting against Russia in UN which was surprising for whole world.
They also cancelled multi billion deal with US to buy F-35 and bought French Rafael. This was a big hit to United States. It was a clear indication that US is losing its Hegemony. Biden is also losing grounds in Middle East. In this context, Meeting of Syrian President with UAE Crown Prince could have great geopolitical benefits.