Damascus, SANA-Foreign and Expatriates Minister Asaad al-Shaibani affirmed that Syria and Saudi Arabia are entering a strong phase of joint investment and economic cooperation.
“We discussed many issues, and there was a dedicated meeting in the fields of economy, energy, and joint investment. I extend special thanks to the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its diplomatic institutions. The support they have provided to Syria since the moment of liberation has been clear, constructive, and profound” During a joint press conference with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, at Tishreen Palace in Damascus, Minister al-Shaibani said.
Minister al-Shaibani added: “We are particularly grateful for the role played by Saudi Arabia, especially in lifting sanctions, as these measures weakened the Syrian people. They did not target regimes, but rather targeted our survival and recovery. We are fully aware that lifting sanctions is only the beginning. The real work has begun now, and our government has already begun taking serious steps to prioritize the provision of basic services in all governorates. The focus is clear and urgent on the areas of energy, electricity, water, fuel, food, and medicine that every Syrian citizen deserves.”
Al-Shaibani continued “Two days ago, we signed a major energy agreement that will bring light back to Syria. This is the kind of progress we are committed to delivering, not just in words but in deeds, rebuilding Syria is not just about repairing what has been destroyed, but also about building something better.”
The minister pointed out that Syria and the Kingdom are entering a strong phase of joint investment and economic cooperation. These strategic initiatives aim to rebuild infrastructure, revive agriculture, revitalize the economy, and create real job opportunities for Syrians.
Minister al-Shaibani added: This is the choice Syria is making: economic sovereignty through a strategic alliance, the strength of the partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia lies in mutual interests, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a stable region built by stable countries.
Minister al-Shaibani stressed that Syria’s reconstruction will not be imposed from outside Syria, but will be built by and for the Syrian people, and that Saudi Arabia will have a pivotal role in this phase. The investment frameworks developed by Syria focus on mutual benefit, transparency, and respect for Syria’s sovereignty. He noted that the challenges are great, and that years of war have left scars not only on cities but also in hearts. Despite this, Syrians are determined to heal, and this requires justice and recognition of sacrifices.
Minister al-Shaibani said “our government has been honored to facilitate the performance of the Hajj pilgrimage for hundreds of Syrian families, especially the families of martyrs, who were wounded or maimed forever because of their struggle against the Assad regime. Their journey to the Sacred House of God is not only a reward for their patience, but it is a symbol of the Syria we seek to build, a Syria that honors its heroes, protects its weakest, does not forget those who have suffered, and refuses to leave anyone behind. This is the spirit of this new phase, this is the identity of the new Syria, a homeland that returns to its natural place in the region with humility, strength, and an outstretched hand towards partnership.”
For his part, the Saudi Foreign Minister said: “I discussed with His Excellency President Ahmad al-Sharaa opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation in various fields, reflecting the fraternal and historical ties between the two countries and peoples. During this visit, I expressed the Kingdom’s aspiration to strengthen the partnership with our brothers in Syria, which will contribute to consolidating stability and supporting opportunities for economic advancement, positioning Syria in its natural position and status.”
“The Kingdom appreciates the US President’s response to lifting sanctions on Syria. It also appreciates the similar announcement by the United Kingdom and the European Union countries, and the steps that will strengthen the Syrian people’s confidence in their future. Lifting sanctions will contribute to revitalizing the Syrian economy, which has been paralyzed for decades, and this will quickly translate into further development, stability, and prosperity. The Kingdom, in partnership with the State of Qatar, will provide joint financial support to public sector workers in Syria.” Minister Faisal bin Farhan added.
The Saudi Foreign Minister continued: “We discussed investment support and economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. Today, we are accompanied by a senior economic delegation to hold discussions to enhance cooperation across various economic, investment, and trade sectors. This will be followed by economic delegations in the coming days, including a large number of businessmen from the Kingdom, in the fields of energy, agriculture, trade, infrastructure, and information and communication technologies.”
Minister Faisal bin Farhan said: “We affirm that the Kingdom will remain at the forefront of countries that stand by Syria in the process of reconstruction and economic recovery. There is a great desire from investors in the Kingdom to take advantage of these opportunities, in dealing with our Syrian brothers, which enhances the common interests of the two countries.”
“Syria has many opportunities and capabilities, the Syrian people have proven abroad and around the world their ability to innovate and succeed in various fields. Today, they have an opportunity to advance their country, and we are with them, hand in hand, under the directives of His Highness the Crown Prince, Prime Minister, to provide all forms of support and assistance to the Syrian people. We are working closely and continuously with the Syrian government in efforts and endeavors to achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people and strengthen their national unity in a way that embodies the fraternal and historical relations between the two brotherly countries.” The Saudi Foreign Minister concluded.
MHD Ibrahim