RIYADH — Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met U.S. envoy to Syria Tom Barrack in Riyadh on Sunday, as diplomatic engagement and economic activity around Syria continue to expand.
The meeting focused on recent developments in Syria and followed a major Saudi investment announcement aimed at rebuilding key sectors of the war-damaged country.
Talks Follow Major Saudi Investment Announcement
The meeting came one day after Saudi Arabia unveiled a large, multi-sector investment package in Syria.
After more than a decade of conflict, the plan targets long-term reconstruction and economic recovery.
Saudi officials confirmed that the Kingdom launched a new investment vehicle, the Elaf Fund, to support large projects with backing from Saudi private-sector investors.
Airport Projects Anchor New Investment Fund
A major portion of the funding will support aviation infrastructure.
Key details include:
- 7.5 billion Saudi riyals ($2 billion) committed to airport development
- Multi-phase upgrades planned for two airports in Aleppo
- Long-term goal to restore Syria’s regional air connectivity
The projects mark one of the largest aviation investments in Syria in years.
New Airline Deal Signals Aviation Revival
Saudi Arabia also advanced cooperation in civil aviation.
Saudi budget carrier flynas and the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority signed an agreement to establish a new airline called “flynas Syria.”
The move aims to:
- Expand commercial air travel
- Support tourism and business links
- Reconnect Syria to regional markets
Telecom Investment Targets National Connectivity
Telecommunications featured prominently in the investment plan.
So, Saudi telecom giant STC will invest more than three billion riyals ($800 million) to upgrade Syria’s communications network.
The project includes:
- A fiber-optic network spanning more than 4,500 kilometers
- Improved regional and international connectivity
- Modernization of digital infrastructure
Sanctions Lift Opens Door for Reconstruction
The investments follow the U.S. decision to lift sanctions on Syria in December, a move that removed a major barrier to economic recovery.
Thus, Saudi Arabia has since emerged as a key financial backer following the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024.
The conflict, which lasted 14 years, devastated infrastructure and displaced millions.
U.S. Envoy Welcomes Saudi Role
U.S. envoy Tom Barrack publicly welcomed the Saudi-led initiatives, highlighting their importance for rebuilding efforts.
He described the aviation, infrastructure, and telecom projects as strategic partnerships that support Syria’s recovery and long-term stability.
Energy and Water Cooperation Expands
Moreover, Saudi Arabia and Syria advanced cooperation in utilities.
The two sides signed agreements involving:
- ACWA Power
- Saudi Water Transmission Company
The agreements outline plans for a seawater desalination plant. It is designed to supply fresh water from Syria’s coast to southern regions.
Syrian energy officials confirmed the project aims to improve water security nationwide.
Saudi Arabia is pairing diplomacy with large-scale investment to shape Syria’s post-war recovery. Meanwhile, U.S. engagement signals growing international support for reconstruction and stability efforts.
