Saudi, Qatar to provide joint financial aid to Syria’s public sector

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
1 Jun 2025 06:24

Saudi Arabia and Qatar announce joint financial support for Syrian public sector workers, signaling a push for reconstruction.

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Syria's interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, 2nd right, looks to the US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack 3rd left, as they attend the signing of an agreement for a consortium of Qatari, Turkish, and US companies for development of an energy project, in Damascus, Syria, on May 29, 2025. (AP)

Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan announced Saturday that Riyadh and Doha will jointly provide financial support for public sector employees in Syria, as part of broader efforts to support reconstruction and economic recovery in the war-torn country.

The announcement came during a joint press conference in Damascus with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani. Bin Farhan reaffirmed his country's backing for the lifting of international sanctions on Syria and its commitment to reviving Syria’s reconstruction process.

“We want to see Syria in its natural place and position, and we will work to make that happen,” said bin Farhan, adding that he had discussed with his Syrian counterpart opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties in a way that reflects “brotherly cooperation.”

Bin Farhan also welcomed US President Donald Trump's response to requests for easing sanctions on Syria, saying such a move would "help drive economic recovery and improve the living conditions of the Syrian people."

Three-month public sector support initiative

According to a joint statement issued later by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, the financial support will cover a three-month period for Syrian public employees. The initiative follows a previous joint move by the two Gulf states to help Syria pay off approximately $15 million in arrears to the World Bank.

The statement, published by the Saudi Press Agency and Qatar News Agency, stressed that the aid reflects both countries’ commitment to supporting Syria’s stability, alleviating humanitarian suffering, and advancing the interests of the Syrian people.

Focus on reconstruction and economic stability

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Syria’s development and economic and social stability. The statement underscored the importance of coordination with international and regional organizations to ensure sustainable support and genuine development opportunities for Syrians.

Bin Farhan arrived in Damascus at the head of a high-level economic delegation that included advisors and officials from Saudi Arabia’s ministries of finance, investment, and foreign affairs. During his visit, he met with Syria’s transitional president, Ahmad al-Sharaa.

$7 billion energy deal announced

On Thursday, Syria signed a $7 billion energy agreement and memorandum of understanding with a coalition of international companies. Syrian Foreign Minister al-Shibani stressed the country’s commitment to "economic sovereignty," adding that the strength of Syria’s partnership with Saudi Arabia lies in shared interests.

“Syria’s reconstruction will not be imposed from outside,” he said, emphasizing that it will be led by the Syrian people, while welcoming contributions from all willing parties.