Washington (CNN) -- President Obama is ending the United States' five-year diplomatic absence in Syria by formally nominating veteran diplomat Robert Ford to serve as U.S. ambassador there, a sign of thawing relations between the two nations.

Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Tuesday that Ford was an experienced diplomat with many years of dealings in the Middle East.

"His appointment represents President Obama's commitment to use engagement to advance U.S. interests by improving communication with the Syrian government and people," Gibbs said.

"If confirmed by the Senate, Ambassador Ford will engage the Syrian government on how we can enhance relations, while addressing areas of ongoing concern," Gibbs said.

The United States withdrew its ambassador from Syria in 2005 in protest of the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

Washington accused Syria of being behind the killing of the popular statesman in a massive bombing that also left 22 others dead. Syria denied the accusations, but an investigation by the United Nations Special Tribunal found Syrian government involvement. The revelation led to the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon.

Since then, Syria and Lebanon have attempted to enhance relations.

The Obama administration wants to renew dialogue with Syria as part of a wider effort for establish regional peace.

A fluent Arabic speaker, Ford has been serving in the U.S. embassy in Iraq as deputy chief of mission. He was also ambassador to Algeria.

Ford's nomination was announced just ahead of Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Bill Burns' trip to the region, which includes stops in Syria and Lebanon.