In a rare public appearance outside central Damascus, Syrian president Bashar al-Assad visited displaced Syrians in the town of Adra on Wednesday, reported Syrian state media. State television said the Syrian president was inspecting a shelter for people displaced by fighting in the town that was partly captured by rebels three months ago.

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Assad has made a few public appearances since Syria's conflict began three years ago. His appearance on Wednesday highlights his increasing confidence just 18 months after rebels appeared to be challenging his control over the capital.

A picture posted on Syrian presidency's twitter account said, "President al-Assad inspects the conditions of displaced people sheltering in the center Dwair Adra in Damascus countryside."

Read more at The Washington Post.

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