Syrian Transport Minister Calls for Joint Economic Base with Lebanon
Syrian Minister of Transport, Yarob Badr, has called on the business communities in Syria and Lebanon to expand their economic cooperation beyond traditional transit activities. During the first Syrian-Lebanese Investment Forum held in Beirut, the minister emphasized the need to transition toward establishing a shared foundation for production, marketing, and logistics, leveraging the complementary economic strengths and export capabilities of both nations.
Minister Badr explained that this initiative seeks to capitalize on the comparative advantages of both sides, particularly in the agricultural sector. By focusing on the processing and transformation of agricultural products, the countries can significantly enhance the value-added potential and global competitiveness of their goods in international and Mediterranean markets. The minister noted that the strategic vision involves transforming the region extending from the Eastern Mediterranean, through the Syrian desert, into an integrated hub that combines raw materials, industrial expertise, and financial resources, while utilizing the ports in both countries to bolster export operations.
Regarding the development of transport infrastructure, Badr outlined the Syrian government’s ongoing efforts to upgrade the transportation network to accommodate increased cargo traffic with neighboring countries. This includes facilitating transit routes from Turkey and Europe toward the Arabian Gulf, as well as from Iraq toward the Mediterranean. To support this, the Syrian government has allocated approximately $500 million for the rehabilitation of major central roads designated for transit freight over the next six years. These projects will be managed under the supervision of specialized firms to ensure operational efficiency.
Turning to the rail sector, the minister noted that Syria possesses a 2,800-kilometer rail network, with 1,000 kilometers currently in operation. The government’s strategy moving forward involves a phased rehabilitation of the network, prioritizing lines that offer the fastest economic returns. Additionally, Badr announced that Syria has secured a $200 million grant from the World Bank, specifically earmarked for railway restoration and emergency recovery support.
Furthermore, the minister highlighted the digital transformation efforts being implemented by the Ministry of Transport, which are designed to optimize logistics and freight services as part of the broader framework for regional economic integration. The forum was attended by a high-level Syrian delegation led by the Minister of Economy and Foreign Trade, which included various ministers and officials from aviation and investment authorities. The delegation engaged with Lebanese counterparts to explore partnership opportunities in sectors including reconstruction, energy, agriculture, tourism, and transport, reflecting a broad participation from the economic sectors of both countries.
Source: Syria Focus Arabic
