Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said that increased communication with Syria could pave the way for its return to the Arab League as relations improve after isolation that lasted more than ten years, but it is too early at the moment to discuss such a step.

According to Reuters, the Saudi minister reaffirmed that there is growing consensus in the Arab world that isolating Syria is ineffective and that dialogue with Damascus is necessary, especially to address the humanitarian situation there.

He also told reporters in London: "Dialogue to address these concerns is necessary. This may eventually lead to Syria's return to the Arab League and so on. But at this time, I think it is premature to discuss this matter."

Saudi Arabia will host the Arab summit this year. In response to a question about whether Syria would be invited to attend the summit, Prince Faisal said, "I think it is too early to talk about that."

He also added: "But I can say... that there is a consensus in the Arab world, and the current situation cannot continue. This means we have to find a way to overcome it."