Syria and World Bank agree to establish reconstruction trust fund

Syria and the World Bank have agreed to establish the Syria Recovery and Reconstruction Trust Fund (START). Announced during the 2026 World Bank and IMF annual meetings in Bangkok, the fund aims to coordinate international aid, provide direct financing, investment guarantees, and technical assistance to accelerate economic recovery and institutional reform.

Syrian Finance Minister Mohammad Yusr Barnia stated that the initiative marks a new phase of international cooperation. The fund is expected to include donors such as Norway, the Netherlands, Qatar, and the United Kingdom. The World Bank will manage the fund in coordination with donors and development partners, following priorities set by the Syrian government.

In addition to the trust fund, the Syrian government is exploring entry into international debt markets in 2027 to build creditworthiness. Barnia noted ongoing discussions with international financial institutions and major American banks, including Bank of America and JPMorgan, regarding financial sector development and debt settlement. The government is also working with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to complete membership procedures and seeking cooperation with the Saudi Fund for Development to support infrastructure and social inclusion projects.