In his first public address since the US lifted longstanding economic sanctions on Syria, President Ahmad al-Sharaa declared Wednesday night that a new era had begun for the war-torn country and urged Syrians and foreign partners alike to participate in rebuilding efforts.
Speaking in a nine-minute televised speech carried by state media, Sharaa described the end of US sanctions as a “historic and courageous” decision. He called on investors—Syrians at home and abroad, as well as Arab, Turkish, and international entrepreneurs—to help transform Syria into “a land of peace and joint work.”
“Syria went through a tragic phase under the rule of the fallen regime,” Sharaa said. “We became a pariah, repelling our people and neighbors. But today marks the beginning of serious work to build a modern Syria.” He emphasized unity and national sovereignty, adding, “We will not allow Syria to be divided or become an arena for struggle over influence.”
Arab and International Backing Credited for Diplomatic Breakthrough
The president attributed the lifting of sanctions in large part to coordinated diplomatic engagement and growing international support. He cited the efforts of both the Syrian diplomatic core, and the work of key leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Erdogan, and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, as pivotal in Syria’s return to the regional stage.
French President Emmanuel Macron was also singled out for expressing readiness to coordinate with the European Union to lift European sanctions, while President Donald Trump’s decision was cast as the culmination of both grassroots advocacy and high-level diplomacy.
“The unity of Syrians at home and abroad played a crucial role,” Sharaa said. “The interaction of Syrian communities around the world helped convince international actors that it was time to end Syria’s isolation.”
Officials Signal Economic Overhaul Following Sanctions Relief
Echoing the president’s remarks, top Syrian officials painted an optimistic picture of the country’s economic prospects. Finance Minister Muhammad Yisr Barnieh said the government was crafting investment-friendly reforms, including a new tax system, customs overhaul, and banking modernization. “Syria is a very promising country for investment in all sectors,” Barnieh told local media.
Planning and International Cooperation Commission head Musab Badawi said the end of sanctions—particularly on the banking sector—would unlock improvements in healthcare, education, and public services. “This is a chance to raise living standards and revive stalled development projects,” he said.
Building a New Syria Has Begun
Sharaa’s speech underscored the achievements of his transitional administration, citing the formation of a new government, constitutional declaration, market reforms, and the return of Syria’s flag to the UN. He stressed that Syria’s progress would rest on both internal unity and regional cooperation. “We have a long way to go,” Sharaa said in the national address, “but the journey of building a new Syria—strong, united, and prosperous—has begun.”
