RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs is participating in the 16th International Conference of Daaru-Na’im Academy for Shariah Science in Nigeria.

The ministry is a guest of honor and chair of the conference’s first scientific session. The conference runs from Jan. 1-3.

The conference began with a speech by Imran Abdul Majeed, the conference chairman and general supervisor of the academy, in which he praised Saudi Arabia’s role in sponsoring and participating in international conferences, in line with its leadership in Islamic work and keenness to spread the moderate approach of Islam.

The acting undersecretary at the ministry, Awad Al-Enezi, said in his speech that the Kingdom is keen to participate in these conferences, confirming its consistent approach in supporting Islamic work and dedication to the unity of Muslims.

He said the Kingdom is making great efforts to serve Islam and Muslims, fulfilling its mission of spreading Islam, peace, love and goodness and calling for unity and non-divisiveness.

RIYADH: Saudi foreign minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with his Syrian counterpart Asaad Al-Shaibani in Riyadh on Thursday to discuss the latest developments in Syria.

Prince Faisal reiterated the Kingdom's commitment to supporting Syria's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity while emphasizing efforts to achieve security, stability, and prosperity for the Syrian people, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The discussions also focused on preserving Syrian state institutions, enhancing its capabilities, and facilitating its reintegration into the Arab and Islamic worlds, SPA added.

Senior Saudi officials including Prince Musab bin Mohammed Al-Farhan and ambassadors Saud Al-Sati and Faisal Al-Majfal were also in attendance.

Al-Shibani arrived with a high-level Syrian delegation on Wednesday, including Defense Minister Marahf Abu Qasra and Intelligence Chief Anas Khattab.

They were welcomed at King Khalid International Airport by Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji.

This marks Al-Shibani's first foreign trip since the ouster of former Syrian president Bashar Assad on Dec. 8.

The visit comes after Syria’s new leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, praised Saudi Arabia's potential role in shaping Syria’s future during an interview with Al Arabiya on Sunday.