Trump announces move to delist Syria as terror sponsor
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday told Syrian Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa that Washington has begun the process of removing Syria from the U.S. list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, a move that could pave the way for expanded investment and deeper economic ties between the two countries.
According to a letter seen by Reuters, Trump told al-Sharaa that he had fulfilled a pledge to eliminate obstacles preventing Syria’s recovery.
“I promised to remove all barriers stopping you from rebuilding your country, and very soon, you will finally be able to do so,” Trump wrote.
The letter was delivered to al-Sharaa following the two leaders’ meeting in Ankara on Wednesday, according to a senior U.S. administration official.
Trump said he had formally notified Congress of the decision, triggering a 45-day review period before the removal can take effect.
If finalized, the move would end decades of restrictions associated with Syria’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, including limits on U.S. foreign assistance, defense exports, and certain financial transactions.
Trump also said American companies are prepared to invest in Syria as the country seeks to rebuild.
“We have U.S. companies ready to invest in Syria and help make your country greater and more prosperous than ever before,” he wrote.
Reacting to the announcement, Syrian Central Bank Governor Safwat Raslan said the decision would create broader opportunities for foreign investment, economic recovery, and Syria’s reintegration into the global economy.
The announcement follows Trump’s executive order last year ending a U.S. sanctions program targeting Syria, a step that eased the country’s isolation from the international financial system.
Several Saudi companies have since announced plans for multi-billion-dollar investments in Syria, while other Gulf states have pledged financial support for the country’s reconstruction.