Saudi Arabia and Qatar Will Pay Syria’s $15 Million Debt to the World Bank, Clearing the Way for Aid

BY THE ARAB TODAY Apr 28, 2025

Saudi Arabia and Qatar Will Pay Syria’s $15 Million Debt to the World Bank, Clearing the Way for Aid

Saudi Arabia and Qatar Will Pay Syria’s $15 Million Debt to the World Bank, Clearing the Way for Aid

Saudi Arabia and Qatar said on Saturday that they will pay about $15 million that Syria owes to the World Bank. This decision could help Syria get more financial support to rebuild after the war.

Syria’s Financing

Saudi Arabia and Qatar said, “This step will allow the World Bank Group to start helping Syria again after stopping support for more than 14 years.”

This would be the first time Saudi Arabia gives money to Syria since former President Bashar al-Assad was removed from power last year.

This joint decision could be a sign that Gulf countries are finally ready to support Syria. Before this, plans like Qatar’s idea to pay Syrian public workers had been delayed because of worries about U.S. sanctions.

The statement also said, “It will help Syria quickly get money to rebuild important parts of the country.” Saudi Arabia and Qatar asked other financial organizations around the world to start helping Syria again as soon as possible.

Syria owes about $15 million to the World Bank. It needs to pay off this debt before the World Bank can approve new grants and give more help.

The World Bank had stopped working in Syria over ten years ago when the civil war began. Getting the World Bank’s help again is important for rebuilding and fixing Syria’s broken economy.

Rejoining the Global Economy

At the same time, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said it wants to help Syria reconnect with the world economy. “Our goal is to help them rebuild their systems so they can be part of the global economy,” said IMF leader Kristalina Georgieva on Thursday.

This news came as Syria’s central bank governor and finance minister joined the IMF and World Bank spring meetings for the first time in over 20 years.

A joint statement by the IMF, World Bank leaders, and Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Aljadaan said there was strong agreement that Syria faces serious problems and needs help to recover.

The statement said the first priority is to meet the urgent needs of the Syrian people, rebuild government systems, and create a plan for economic recovery.

A high-level meeting this week also gave Syrian officials a chance to share their ideas for stabilizing the country, rebuilding it, and encouraging steady economic growth.

Published: 28th April 2025

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