Syria's new leader congratulates US President Donald Trump

Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa congratulated US President Donald Trump on his inauguration on Monday, January 20, saying the American would "bring peace to the Middle East," Report informs via Le Monde.

"We are confident that he is the leader to bring peace to the Middle East and restore stability to the region," Sharaa's administration said in a statement. "We look forward to improving the relations between our two countries based on dialogue and understanding."

Syria's new leaders are seeking financial support to help rebuild the country after more than 13 years of devastating conflict. Sharaa's transitional government has been lobbying to have the sanctions that were imposed by Western countries on Assad's administration lifted. But some governments have been hesitant, wanting time to see how the new authorities exercise their power.