Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan announced a landmark agreement with Qatar to provide direct financial support to Syrian state employees during a press conference in Damascus.
Standing alongside Syrian counterpart Asaad al-Shibani, bin Farhan confirmed the joint initiative but did not disclose specific funding amounts.
The move signals deepening Gulf engagement with Syria’s new government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
Sanctions Relief Paves the Way
The aid follows a seismic shift in international policy toward Syria. U.S. President Donald Trump lifted sanctions against Damascus last month during his Middle East tour, citing direct appeals from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The European Union followed suit days later, ending its own economic restrictions. Bin Farhan emphasized Saudi Arabia’s "pivotal role" in securing sanctions relief, pledging Riyadh would remain "a cornerstone of Syria’s reconstruction and economic recovery."
Economic Delegations to Drive Investment
Bin Farhan revealed he was accompanied by senior Saudi economic officials to negotiate cooperation in energy, agriculture, and infrastructure. "Saudi business delegations will arrive in Damascus next week to finalize investment frameworks," he stated, noting the talks aim to "reactivate Syria’s crippled public services." Qatar—which previously funded Syrian state salaries unilaterally—will now coordinate efforts with Riyadh, reflecting a unified Gulf approach to stabilization.
Regional Reintegration Accelerates
Syria’s diplomatic outreach continues to gain momentum: President Sharaa will visit Kuwait on Sunday at the invitation of Emir Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah. The talks in Kuwait City will focus on "political and economic collaboration," according to Syria’s SANA news agency. This follows Sharaa’s recent visits to Egypt and Jordan, underscoring a broader Arab consensus to normalize ties with post-Assad Syria after 14 years of isolation.