Damascus says decision could boost reconstruction, investment and regional stability as Washington begins formal delisting process
DAMASCUS: Syria on Wednesday welcomed the United States’ decision to begin removing the country from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, describing the move as a significant step toward improving bilateral relations and supporting the country’s economic recovery after years of conflict.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry praised US President Donald Trump’s formal notification to Congress of his intention to rescind Syria’s designation, following talks with Syrian President Ahmed al Sharaa during the NATO summit in Ankara. Officials said the decision reflects growing dialogue, mutual respect and shared interests between the two countries.
Moreover, the ministry said ending the designation, together with the lifting of US sanctions, would create new opportunities for reconstruction, international trade and foreign investment. It added that the measures would strengthen Syria’s economic recovery while contributing to regional peace, security and long-term stability.
Washington begins formal congressional process
Earlier on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that President Trump had formally notified Congress of the administration’s intention to remove Syria from the terrorism list after completing the required 45-day congressional notification period.
Rubio described the decision as another historic step aimed at giving the Syrian people an opportunity to rebuild their country. He said lifting sanctions and removing the designation would unlock international commerce, encourage investment and help open a new chapter in Syria’s future.
Economic recovery expected to accelerate
The announcement followed a meeting between Trump and President Ahmed al Sharaa on the sidelines of the NATO summit, where the US leader indicated that Syria’s removal from the list was under active consideration.
Syria has remained on Washington’s list of state sponsors of terrorism since 1979. Although many US sanctions were lifted after the fall of Bashar al Assad’s government, the designation has continued to hinder economic recovery, reconstruction efforts and access to international financial and investment markets.
