Saudi Arabia and Qatar to Co-Fund Salaries for Syrian State Employees
Saudi Arabia and Qatar have announced a significant partnership aimed at stabilizing Syria through financial support for public-sector salaries and economic recovery initiatives. This move was articulated by Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, during a press conference on Saturday alongside Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani in Damascus.
The two Gulf nations have emerged as key regional allies to Syria’s new authorities after the removal of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, ending nearly 14 years of conflict. While specific financial details remain undisclosed, it was revealed earlier this month that Qatar is set to contribute million per month for an initial period of three months to assist in paying civilian public sector worker salaries. This funding is vital for stabilizing the region and fostering economic recovery.
Furthermore, reports indicate that the United States has expressed approval of the Qatari initiative, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s announcement regarding the lifting of long-standing sanctions against Syria. The European Union has also aligned its policies, recently lifting several sanctions on the country.
Adding to the support, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have settled Syria’s debt to the World Bank, amounting to approximately million. This move underscores a commitment to support Syria’s transition and rebuild its economy. The Syrian government, now led by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is actively working to re-establish international ties and build trust with Western nations, stressing its commitment to combating extremism and supporting minority rights.
The European Union’s recent decision to lift economic restrictions—while still maintaining security-related measures—further highlights a shift towards normalization with Syria. Moreover, the World Bank has announced the resumption of its operations in the country, marking a return after a 14-year hiatus. Its forthcoming projects will focus on improving electricity access, vital for essential services such as healthcare and education, thereby facilitating broader economic revitalization.
Syria’s reintegration into the global economy reflects a significant change in political relations, particularly following the lifting of sanctions and the initiation of international dialogue under Trump’s administration. The Syrian leadership’s increasing visibility on the international stage has sparked hope for a renewed focus on development.
However, challenges remain formidable. A UN Development Programme report has indicated that, without substantial investment, Syria could take over 50 years to return to pre-war economic conditions. Currently, an estimated 90% of the population lives in poverty, and the country’s GDP has reportedly fallen to less than half of its 2011 value. This underscores the urgent need for continued international engagement and support to foster a sustainable recovery for the Syrian people.
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