Syria’s government has received the credentials of Waheed Mubarak Sayyar, Bahrain’s new ambassador in Damascus, more than six months after he was appointed.
Government media outlet Sana reported that President Bashar Al Assad attended the ceremony recognising Mr Sayyar as Bahrain’s representative.
There, Mr Al Assad “exchanged discussions with him on a number of topics and issues of concern to the two brotherly countries, wishing him success in his mission”.
The ceremony, also attended by Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad, is another step towards normalisation of Syria's relations with other countries in the region.
Bahrain joined many of its neighbours in cutting ties with Syria in 2011 following an uprising that led to one of the worst civil wars in the region's modern history. The Bahraini embassy was reopened in 2018.
Mr Al Assad has gradually returned to mainstream regional acceptance after being suspended by the 22 member Arab League in 2011.
Several Arab states supported anti-government opposition groups with significant arms and funding, later to be joined by Turkey and the US.
Syria's readmittance to the Arab League has been under discussion since at least 2018, when it became clear that Syrian government forces had re-established control over most of the country, aided by Iran and Russia. Government forces also took advantage of intra-rebel fighting and the focus of all sides on defeating ISIS.
Regional efforts have since turned towards post-conflict stability and access to Syria for humanitarian aid.
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Healthy tips to remember
Here, Dr Mohamed El Abiary, paediatric consultant at Al Zahra Hospital Dubai, shares some advice for parents whose children are fasting during the holy month of Ramadan:
Gradual fasting and golden points - For children under the age of 10, follow a step-by-step approach to fasting and don't push them beyond their limits. Start with a few hours fasting a day and increase it to a half fast and full fast when the child is ready. Every individual's ability varies as per the age and personal readiness. You could introduce a points system that awards the child and offers them encouragement when they make progress with the amount of hours they fast
Why fast? - Explain to your child why they are fasting. By shedding light on the importance of abstaining from food and drink, children may feel more encouraged to give it there all during the observance period. It is also a good opportunity to teach children about controlling urges, doing good for others and instilling healthy food habits
Sleep and suhoor - A child needs adequate sleep every night - at least eight hours. Make sure to set a routine early bedtime so he/she has sufficient time to wake up for suhoor, which is an essential meal at the beginning of the day
Good diet - Nutritious food is crucial to ensuring a healthy Ramadan for children. They must refrain from eating too much junk food as well as canned goods and snacks and drinks high in sugar. Foods that are rich in nutrients, vitamins and proteins, like fruits, fresh meats and vegetables, make for a good balanced diet