Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has welcomed the decision by the United States to lift sanctions imposed on Syria under the Caesar Act, saying the move will support stability, development, and prosperity in the country and help meet the aspirations of the Syrian people.

In a statement on Friday, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised what it described as the “significant positive role” played by US President Donald Trump, beginning with his announcement to lift all sanctions on Syria during his historic visit to Riyadh in May 2025 and culminating in his signing of the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which included the repeal of the Caesar Act.

The Kingdom congratulated Syria’s leadership, government, and people on the lifting of all sanctions, and expressed appreciation for steps taken by the Syrian government to restore stability across the country, create conditions for reconstruction, revive the economy, and facilitate the return of refugees and displaced Syrians to their homes.

The US president signed the repeal of the Caesar Act, which had imposed sanctions on Syria since 2019, after the US House of Representatives approved the measure, drawing official welcome from the Syrian government.

The Caesar Act targeted entities accused of supporting Syria’s former regime, as well as individuals and companies linked to infrastructure investments or economic activity with the previous authorities. It also imposed sanctions on entities financing Russian and Iranian involvement in Syria.

Saudi sources noted that Washington’s decision followed sustained diplomatic efforts by Riyadh, which pressed for lifting unilateral and international sanctions during President Trump’s visit to the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia believes the removal of sanctions will allow Syria to rebuild and unlock opportunities for long-term development and stability.

The Kingdom has reiterated its support for the Syrian people during what it described as a critical stage in their history, and reaffirmed its commitment to helping rebuild Syria as a unified, independent, and secure Arab state, free from terrorism and external violations of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Meanwhile, Syria’s central bank governor, Abdulqader al-Hassriya, said the repeal of the Caesar Act removes a major legal barrier that had hindered Syria’s integration into the international financial system.

He noted that while Syria is likely to begin with a low credit rating, the decision opens the door for sovereign credit assessments that could improve access to global financial markets.

Syria’s state news agency SANA described the repeal as the culmination of intensive diplomatic efforts by the Syrian government, supported by Syrian-American organizations and friendly countries, saying the move will contribute to economic recovery, stability, and development.