A World Bank Group delegation, led by Dr. Ousmane Dione, Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan (MENAAP) region, visited Damascus on November 19 to advance discussions on supporting Syria’s development priorities and recovery efforts.
During the visit, the delegation met with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Asaad Al-Shaibani, and Minister of Finance Mohamad Yisr Barnieh. These meetings built upon earlier discussions held at the World Bank Group Annual Meetings in Washington D.C. last October. The focus was on enhancing the partnership between the World Bank and Syria, setting priority areas for support to Syrians, and expediting program implementation.
The World Bank delegation recognized steps taken by the Syrian government to stabilize its economy under difficult conditions. These measures include reforms in fiscal policy, public finance management, and tax policy.
Ousmane Dione stated: “The World Bank Group stands ready to support Syria’s journey toward recovery and inclusive growth. Our reengagement approach is informed by rigorous knowledge, global experience, strategic partnerships and a strong commitment to deliver tangible benefits for the Syrian people based on their government’s priorities.”
The renewed engagement strategy centers on supporting basic services provision, strengthening public institutions and systems, and developing infrastructure projects that could have transformative effects. The plan includes mobilizing IDA21 resources for Syria as well as helping establish a Multi-Donor Trust Fund and encouraging private sector investment.
This approach is shaped by detailed analysis intended to close information gaps so that policies can be developed based on evidence. It is designed to adapt to Syria’s changing needs while advancing program implementation and establishing the World Bank as a key partner in Syria's recovery process.
Discussions also covered progress on the Syria Emergency Electricity Project (SEEP), which was approved in June 2025 as the first World Bank project in Syria in nearly forty years. SEEP represents an important step in supporting Syria's recovery and stabilization initiatives.
Technical assistance opportunities were also explored during these meetings. Areas identified included capacity building for macro-fiscal management and debt resolution as well as studies for regional infrastructure projects related to transport and energy sectors.
The World Bank Group reaffirmed its commitment to working with Syrian authorities, partners, and communities with an aim of addressing urgent needs while laying groundwork for sustainable development outcomes.