“Saudi Arabia May pay off Syria’s World Bank Arrears,” Reuters Reports

By Kardo Roj

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) –Saudi Arabia is reportedly considering paying off nearly $15 million in overdue debt owed by Syria to the World Bank, according to sources cited by Reuters on Monday. The move, if confirmed, would mark the first declared Saudi financial assistance to Damascus since the country’s civil conflict began in 2011.

The sources said the initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at “preparing the ground for approval of international financial grants designated to support Syria’s reconstruction and strengthen its public sector institutions.” The potential payment is being framed as a technical prerequisite for unlocking new avenues of global aid.

Reuters reported that this would be the first time such a plan has been disclosed and could signal a significant thaw in regional financial ties with Syria’s transitional government, led by President Ahmad al-Shara.

A spokesperson for the Saudi Ministry of Finance told Reuters: “We do not comment on speculation. We announce matters officially when they are ready, if and when conditions allow.”

As of the time of publication, neither the World Bank nor the Syrian Ministry of Finance had issued any statements regarding the potential debt settlement. Similarly, the Saudi Government Media Office has not responded to inquiries about the matter.

The possible Saudi move comes amid broader regional efforts to re-engage with Damascus following years of diplomatic isolation. It also coincides with a regional push to stabilize Syria’s economy and integrate it into international systems after more than a decade of war and sanctions.

Should Saudi Arabia proceed with the repayment, it could open doors to additional bilateral and multilateral economic cooperation, including reconstruction contracts, investment in public infrastructure, and renewed Arab diplomatic engagement.