Syrian diplomatic and economic reintegration

Syria is undergoing a period of diplomatic and economic reintegration. The Arab League has lifted all political, economic, and social sanctions against the Syrian state and its institutions to support reconstruction, though measures against specific former government officials remain. This follows Syria’s restoration to the League in May 2023. Concurrently, Syria has established the Syrian-Ukrainian Business Council to expand trade and investment following a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Damascus in April 2026.

Regional ties are also strengthening, specifically with Turkey. Following meetings between foreign ministers in Damascus, Syria and Turkey have moved toward a strategic alliance, resulting in approximately 40 agreements covering energy, electricity, and the reactivation of land transport via the Bab al-Hawa and Bab al-Salama border crossings. Discussions have also included proposals for a free trade zone and a river port in Idlib. On the international stage, Syrian officials have engaged with the United States regarding the need for practical economic and financial repercussions to support stability, following the IAEA’s decision to close the Syrian nuclear non-compliance file.