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Recovery

Syria signs agreement with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to implement Qatari-Saudi grant for public wages. (Mohamed Yisr Barnieh, Facebook)
Syria signs agreement with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to implement Qatari-Saudi grant for public wages. (Mohamed Yisr Barnieh, Facebook)

Qatari-Saudi grant of $89M will support public sector salaries and the nation’s stability

    28 October 2025.  With help from the UNDP, Syria will begin to disburse a $28 million monthly grant, over three months, to cover part of public sector employees’ wages. Subject to renewal by both donor countries, the grant is intended to sustain essential services and enhance national recovery efforts.Read more at:  SANA

    MED9 Summit—the leaders of France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia, Croatia, plus Jordan--held in Portoroz, Slovenia. (L24)
    MED9 Summit—the leaders of France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia, Croatia, plus Jordan--held in Portoroz, Slovenia. (L24)

    Peace in Syria declared essential to stability of Mediterranean countries and European security

      22 October 2025.  The MED9 Summit signalled a turning point in Syria’s regional reintegration, with leaders of the 9 nations agreeing that peace in Syria is a cornerstone of the region’s security. They called for greater cooperation in reconstruction, economic revitalization, and normalization of political ties with Damascus.Read more at:  LEVANT24

      Representatives of EU countries and global organizations attend Brussels conference on Syrian culture. (SANA)
      Representatives of EU countries and global organizations attend Brussels conference on Syrian culture. (SANA)

      International experts gather to discuss preserving Syria’s cultural heritage

        3 October 2025.  An international conference titled “Protecting Syrian Cultural Heritage in a Changing Political Landscape,” organized by Hungary, was held at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels. The meeting focused on analyzing the impact of current political developments on Syria’s cultural legacy and proposing strategies for preservation and restoration. Participants represented EU countries—Italy, France, Germany, Hungary, Cyprus, and Greece—as well as international organizations.Read more at:  SANA

        The Turkish foundation for Human Rights and Freedoms and Humanitarian Relief (IHH) opens Damascus office. (SANA)
        The Turkish foundation for Human Rights and Freedoms and Humanitarian Relief (IHH) opens Damascus office. (SANA)

        Turkish humanitarian agency expands mission in Syria

          2 October 2025.  With the opening of its Damascus office, Turkey’s IHH Foundation extends its humanitarian reach across Syria, while aiming to improve efficiency and coordination with local communities. Turkey’s Charge d’Affaires described the new office as a step toward greater support of Syria’s reconstruction and recovery from crippling damages. The governors of Damascus and the Damascus region praised Turkey and the IHH for their essential ongoing support and rapid response to Syria’s need.Read more at:  SANA

          Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa makes surprise appearance in Idlib following his return from the UN General Assembly in New York. (SANA)
          Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa makes surprise appearance in Idlib following his return from the UN General Assembly in New York. (SANA)

          Al-Sharaa said to fellow Syrians in post-UN talk: “You astonished the world.”

            27 September 2025.  President Ahmad al-Sharaa chose Idlib, where the movement that brought an end to tyranny was born, for his first speech after returning from his UN engagements. Declaring that Syria had “reclaimed its historical place among nations,” he praised Syrians’ wartime sacrifices for regaining the nation’s dignity and pride. Noting the universal support received for Syria’s territorial integrity, stability and unity, he stated: “Our strength lies in our unity, and unity is mercy while division is torment.”Read more at: LEVANT24

            Hind Kabawat, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, speaks at 30th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth. (SANA)
            Hind Kabawat, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, speaks at 30th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth. (SANA)

            Syrian youth are “turning struggle into strength” for the country’s future

              26 September 2025.  Minister Kabawat represented Syria at the UN General Assembly’s high-level meeting on youth, describing her role as a messenger for “the voices and aspirations of Syrian youth” from all provinces and all ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds. Despite their diversity, she noted, they share the same aspirations for “dignity, justice, and the opportunity to build a meaningful future.” Even through hardship, she reflected, “the resilience of our youth led the way forward.”Read more at: SANA

              Host of Syrian news channel al-Ikhbariya interviews President al-Sharaa. (video still, Qusay Noor, SANA)
              Host of Syrian news channel al-Ikhbariya interviews President al-Sharaa. (video still, Qusay Noor, SANA)

              President affirms territorial sovereignty and independence as Syria rebuilds its economy

                13 September 2025.  In a wide-ranging interview, president al-Sharaa stressed the need for calm relations with all nations as Syria recovers. Emphasizing the primacy of the people’s safety and well-being, he explained that a stable economy involves more than trade and investment. It requires reforming the judicial and educational systems, developing human resources, and providing energy, services, roads, communications, and open relations with neighboring countries, all of which are underway.Read more at:  SANA

                90 tons of medical aid arrive in Damascus from Qatar. (Syrian Foreign Ministry)
                90 tons of medical aid arrive in Damascus from Qatar. (Syrian Foreign Ministry)

                Qatar breathes hope into Syria’s ravaged health sector in act of solidarity

                  9 September 2025.  Qatar sent 90 tons of vital aid to Damascus by land and air, including advanced equipment for hospitals devastated by war. Qatar dubbed the initiative “Syria Abshri,” or “Syria, Be Happy”—an expression of Qatar’s responsiveness to Syria’s need. This humanitarian act brings critical support to millions of Syrians across all regions, as the country struggles to rebuild its healthcare system. Over half of all facilities were partially or totally destroyed during years of civil war.Read more at: LEVANT24

                  Abdulbasit Abdulatif, head of the National Transitional Justice Commission. (SANA)
                  Abdulbasit Abdulatif, head of the National Transitional Justice Commission. (SANA)

                  Government reaches out to civil society to help achieve justice and reconciliation

                    9 September 2025.  Syria’s Transitional Justice Commission was given the mandate of “uncovering the truth about the gross violations committed by the former regime, holding those responsible accountable, redressing the harm suffered by the victims, and consolidating the principles of non-repetition and national reconciliation.” Seeking civil society cooperation, the Chairman met with the Syrian Network for Human Rights, which praised the commission’s openness and offered access to a database of abuses kept since 2011.Read more at: LEVANT24

                    Damascus ceremony launches increased Saudi humanitarian aid. (SANA)
                    Damascus ceremony launches increased Saudi humanitarian aid. (SANA)

                    Saudi Arabia initiates new humanitarian projects to support Syria’s recovery 

                      8 September 2025.  At a ceremony in Damascus on September 7th, Saudi Arabia’s official humanitarian arm, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, unveiled a new wave of initiatives across vital sectors, reinforcing the Kingdom’s continuing commitment to Syria’s recovery and resilience. The projects initiated span the fields of health, food security, environmental sanitation, water, community support, rehabilitation, education, and agriculture.Read more at: LEVANT24

                      600,000 barrels of crude oil depart from Tartous port. (L24)
                      600,000 barrels of crude oil depart from Tartous port. (L24)

                      Milestone for Syria’s recovering economy marked by first oil export

                        3 September 2025.  Syria re-entered the global oil market with its first export after a 14-year hiatus.  With the shipment of 600,000 barrels of heavy oil from Tartous port, the readiness of the oil transport system was confirmed. Despite remaining obstacles, the move represents a significant boost in revitalizing the oil sector and securing needed capital. With new international partnerships, including an $800 million agreement with DP World, the groundwork is being laid for enhancing export capacities.Read more at:  LEVANT24

                        UN General Assembly in session. (Basil D Soufi, Wikimedia Commons)
                        UN General Assembly in session. (Basil D Soufi, Wikimedia Commons)

                        Syria rejoins world body after six decades

                          26 August 2025.  President Ahmad al-Sharaa will be the first Syrian head of state in nearly 60 years to speak to the world assembly, marking Syria’s historic re-entry into global diplomacy. The Foreign Ministry called the UN’s invitation a major sign of the readjustment of positions on Syria, an acknowledgment of the transformation taking place. The president is expected to address Israel’s military incursions in Syria and call upon the world body to support a political solution.Read more at: LEVANT24

                          Sweeping campaign is waged to dismantle Assad-era drug trade. (SANA)
                          Sweeping campaign is waged to dismantle Assad-era drug trade. (SANA)

                          Syria undergoes radical shift toward rule of law

                            22 August 2025.  Under President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s leadership, Syria launched an ambitious campaign to dismantle the Captagon drug economy, born in the shadow of war, and restore public trust in governance. Britain’s Financial Times called it a ‘radical transformation,’ noting that production and trafficking have dropped by 80%.  Brigadier General Khaled Eid, Director of Drug Control, stated the crackdown began on “the first day of liberation,” signalling a new era of reform, accountability, and national renewal.Read more at:  SANA

                            Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani. (L24:Social Media)
                            Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani. (L24:Social Media)

                            Syria welcomes UN report and opens new chapter of accountability and international trust

                              14 August 2025.  In a landmark letter, Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, commended Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro, Chair of the UN Commission of Inquiry, for the report on March coastal events. In his open letter, al-Shaibani welcomed the UN Commission’s findings and affirmed Syria’s commitment to reform, transparency, and justice. The letter marks an historic shift toward international cooperation and accountability, and underscores Syria’s resolve to heal, rebuild, and honor victims of violence.Read more at: LEVANT 24

                              Crowds at 4 July Textiles Expo in the lead-up to the opening of 62nd Damascus International Fair. (Ministry of Economy and Industry - Facebook on ENAB BALADI)
                              Crowds at 4 July Textiles Expo in the lead-up to the opening of 62nd Damascus International Fair. (Ministry of Economy and Industry - Facebook on ENAB BALADI)

                              Damascus International Fair returns, revitalized after six-year hiatus

                                13 August 25.  The Damascus International Fair will open at Exhibition City on August 27th. Since its founding in 1954, this trade fair has been one of the most important in the Middle East and Arab region. It has been an historic hub for trade and culture, combining commercial activity with tourism and cultural events. Showcasing innovation, it invites international collaboration across diverse industries and sectors.Read more at:  SANA

                                State ministries and civic groups cooperate in initiative to unite the nation. (SANA)
                                State ministries and civic groups cooperate in initiative to unite the nation. (SANA)

                                Syria launches “Cleanliness is Culture,” a campaign to help restore the country

                                  9 August 2025.  Syria’s Ministry of Culture launched a “Cleanliness is Culture” campaign, along with other government ministries and volunteer groups, to promote cleanliness as a daily civic value and a reflection of national pride.  Culture Minister, Mohammad Yassin al-Saleh, stated that Syria has regained its vitality and now needs to preserve its beauty and resources.  The campaign aims to promote cleanliness as an ethical behaviour that contributes to building a new Syria and fosters a sense of national belonging.Read more at: SANA

                                  From out of the Rubble, Life and Hope

                                    The White Helmets lived the meaning of sacrifice—leaving their own families to save others under fire. “It’s hard to be away from your family,” one volunteer said, “but life requires sacrifice.” In a global culture that is shaped by the desire for personal comfort and that exhibits indifference to the suffering of others, their courage stands as a quiet challenge.

                                    Refugees with tech expertise returning from exile in Istanbul. (Tim Dunk)
                                    Refugees with tech expertise returning from exile in Istanbul. (Tim Dunk)

                                    Syrian tech talent returns to Damascus to spark tech-driven renewal 

                                      5 August 2025.  Civil war refugees with tech expertise are returning home to rebuild Syria’s tech sector. They’re part of a growing movement to support entrepreneurs and investors in tech-driven startups and help to overhaul Syria’s digital infrastructure. Immediately after the fall of Assad, they launched a professional network in Damascus and held a tech summit to connect Syria’s emerging tech industry with Silicon Valley. They return to serve despite financial sacrifice.Read more at: RESTOFWORLD

                                      Syria signs agreement with World Food Programme (WFP, video still, 24 July)
                                      Syria signs agreement with World Food Programme (WFP, video still, 24 July)

                                      The World Food Programme commits to enhancing Syria’s food security 

                                        17 July 2025.  A strategic partnership agreement was signed by Syria’s Ministry of Economy and Industry and the World Food Programme to develop Syria’s infrastructure for food production and distribution. Calling the partnership ‘an important pillar’ of support, the Syrian official said the agreement would shift the relationship with WFP from relief work to developing an integrated path for improving the efficiency and quality of food production.Read more at SANA