Syrian Ministers to Attend IMF, World Bank Meetings Next Week

Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani attends a meeting on Syria, following the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 12, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed

Syrian ministers and the Central Bank Governor are scheduled to participate in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank’s spring meetings in Washington next week, according to sources.

They aim to discuss strategies for rebuilding Syria’s economy after years of conflict.

Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, Finance Minister Mohammed Barnieh, and Central Bank Governor Abdul Qadir al-Hasriya will attend the meetings, focusing on post-war reconstruction and economic recovery. The Syrian delegation will also include Economy Minister Mohammed al-Shaar.

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IMF_Asaad Al-Shaibani (News Central TV)
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – MARCH 17: Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani takes part in the 9th International Conference in support of Syria in Brussels, Belgium, on March 17, 2025. Credit: Dursun Aydemir/Anadolu via Getty Images

Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s new government is attempting to re-establish connections with international organizations to aid in the country’s rebuilding and economic revitalisation. They are also advocating for the removal of sanctions imposed during Assad’s rule.

The World Bank halted its operations in Syria at the onset of the civil war. A UN report estimated Syria’s lost GDP from 2011 to 2024 at $800 billion, with a significant majority of the population struggling to afford necessities.

In Damascus, Finance Minister Barnieh met with a World Bank delegation to discuss modernising Syria’s banking sector.

He emphasised Syria’s desire to strengthen economic ties with the World Bank and highlighted the detrimental impact of Western sanctions on the country’s financial system.

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  • Kathleen Ndongmo

    Kathleen is a seasoned communications and public affairs strategist with over 25 years of leadership experience across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. With a strong background in journalism, corporate communications, and digital media management, she has led impactful campaigns and strategies in both corporate and development sectors.

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