📰 Syria signs dozens of accords to push for economic recovery

Damascus, Dec. 9 (SANA) Following liberation, Syria has signed nearly fifty agreements and memoranda of understanding with a range of international and regional partners, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to rebuild its economy, restore infrastructure, and strengthen its international presence. The agreements, covering sectors including transport, energy, health, education, agriculture, and tourism, are designed to open emerging opportunities for development, backing sustainable reconstruction, and improve services for Syrian citizens. They also aim to attract investment, foster technological cooperation, and reinforce Syria’s diplomatic and economic ties. Infrastructure and Transport Key agreements include an $800 million strategic partnership with Dubai Ports World to operate, expand, and modernize the Port of Tartous.

Additional agreements were signed with French company CMA CGM for Latakia port operations and with Matière to rehabilitate 37 damaged bridges. In civil aviation, Syrian Civil Aviation Authority signed multiple agreements with UAE, Turkish, and Qatari companies to improve airport infrastructure, air transport services, and advertising investment at Damascus International Airport. Health and Education Syria strengthened its health sector through 15 agreements with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent and the International Committee of the Red Cross, focusing on medical services, capacity building, and relief operations. Cooperation agreements were also signed with Turkish and German partners to modernize hospitals, develop medical technology, and improve healthcare services. In higher education, Syrian and Turkish authorities signed a memorandum to exchange expertise, enhance academic programs, and integrate artificial intelligence into university curricula.

Furthermore, economic and Energy Cooperation Economic agreements include collaborations with Jordan and Turkey to establish joint industrial projects, promote trade, and backing food security programs. A memorandum of understanding with Mastercard was signed to develop digital payment infrastructure and enhance financial inclusion. Notably, energy cooperation represents a significant component of Syria’s reconstruction plan. Agreements cover electricity generation, renewable energy, oil and gas development, and cross-border power connections. Syrian and Saudi authorities signed a memorandum to strengthen bilateral energy cooperation, while Turkey and Azerbaijan will supply gas and solar power to support domestic energy needs.

Agriculture, Tourism, and Media The Ministry of Agriculture signed an agreement with the World Food Program to support farmers affected by drought. The Ministry of Tourism partnered with Saudi investors to rehabilitate and develop key tourism facilities, including the Seven Gates Hotel in Damascus. In the media sector, a memorandum was signed to establish “Damascus Gate,” a media and arts city aimed at enhancing Syria’s creative and broadcasting…