Saudi Arabia welcomes the lifting of US sanctions and the Caesar Act on Syria
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed its profound welcome for the historic decision taken by the United States of America to lift all sanctions imposed on the Syrian Arab Republic, including those related to the Caesar Act. The Ministry affirmed that this pivotal step represents a fundamental turning point that will support the paths to stability and prosperity, and accelerate development in Syria, thus fulfilling the aspirations of the brotherly Syrian people for a dignified life and the reconstruction of their homeland.
Details of the US decision and the Saudi role
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commended the positive and leading role played by His Excellency President Donald Trump in this regard. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that this decision culminated a diplomatic process that began with His Excellency's announcement of his intention to lift sanctions during his historic visit to Riyadh in May 2015, and was crowned by the signing of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2016, which included an explicit provision to repeal the Caesar Act and end the economic embargo.
Background of the Caesar Act and its previous effects
To understand the significance of this decision, it's essential to note that the Caesar Act, previously passed by the United States, imposed stringent economic sanctions targeting vital sectors in Syria, most notably energy, construction, engineering, and the central bank. For years, this law isolated the Syrian economy from the global financial system, leading to severe hardship, a decline in the value of the local currency, and hindering reconstruction efforts in affected areas.
Future prospects: Reconstruction and the return of refugees
With the lifting of these sanctions, a new phase of economic recovery is opening. This decision will enable the Syrian government to import the materials necessary to rehabilitate its devastated infrastructure and attract foreign investment without fear of US legal repercussions. Lifting the embargo is also expected to improve the living conditions of Syrian citizens, creating a suitable and encouraging environment for the return of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons to their cities and villages—a matter the Kingdom has consistently emphasized as being of paramount importance to regional security.
The Kingdom's firm stance
The Ministry concluded its statement by extending its sincere congratulations to the Syrian leadership, government, and the brotherly Syrian people on this achievement. The Kingdom reiterated its appreciation for the steps taken by the Syrian government to establish stability throughout Syrian territory, affirming Riyadh's unwavering support for Damascus in its efforts to restore its Arab and regional role and to create the appropriate conditions for rebuilding the state, its institutions, and its national economy.
