In a move reflecting the growing bilateral relations between Riyadh and Damascus, the CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development, Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Murshid, held a series of important meetings today in the Syrian capital, including with several ministers responsible for vital service sectors. Al-Murshid met with Minister of Energy, Engineer Mohammed Al-Bashir, Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management, Raed Al-Saleh, and Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdul Salam Heikal, in the presence of the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the Syrian Arab Republic, Dr. Faisal Al-Mujfel.
New horizons for economic and development cooperation
The discussions focused on reviewing vital opportunities for joint development cooperation, with both sides exploring ways the Saudi Fund for Development could support strategic projects in Syria. This initiative aligns with the Fund's commitment to actively contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and supporting initiatives that enhance the efficiency of infrastructure and essential services provided to Syrian citizens, particularly in the energy and telecommunications sectors, which are the backbone of a modern economy.
Context of the return of diplomatic relations
This visit is particularly significant as it comes amidst the positive momentum in Saudi-Syrian relations following the resumption of diplomatic ties, Syria's return to its seat in the Arab League, and the subsequent appointment by the Kingdom of its ambassador, Dr. Faisal Al-Mujfel, to Damascus. These steps strongly indicate the desire of both sides to move from political normalization to fruitful economic and developmental cooperation, serving the interests of both brotherly nations and strengthening regional stability.
The importance of development support in the recovery phase
The discussions on energy, disaster management, and technology come at a critical time, as Syria embarks on a recovery and reconstruction phase. The Saudi Fund for Development's extensive experience in supporting infrastructure projects is expected to help rehabilitate electricity networks, develop emergency response systems, and modernize digital infrastructure, directly contributing to improved living conditions and attracting foreign investment.
The Saudi Fund for Development: A History of Global Giving
It is worth noting that the Saudi Fund for Development has a long and distinguished track record in international development work since its establishment in 1974. The Fund has successfully made tangible development contributions in more than 100 developing countries worldwide, financing and supporting over 800 development projects and programs across various vital sectors. The total value of these projects exceeds $22 billion, reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's unwavering commitment to supporting economic and social growth in brotherly and friendly nations and achieving sustainable development impact.
