Morocco announced on Saturday its decision to reopen its embassy in Damascus, more than twelve years after it was closed in 2012, signaling a shift in diplomatic relations between Rabat and Damascus.

The announcement came in a message from King Mohammed VI, delivered on his behalf by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita during the opening session of the 34th Arab League Summit held in Baghdad.

In his message, the Moroccan monarch reaffirmed his country’s support for the Syrian people in achieving their legitimate aspirations and preserving Syria’s territorial integrity. “As a reflection of this position, the Kingdom has decided to reopen its embassy in Damascus, a step that will help broaden bilateral relations between the two countries,” the King stated.