Saudi Arabia, Syria sign telecom and airline deals as sanctions lift

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseFebruary 7, 2026 at 04:27 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

Saudi Arabia and Syria signed agreements on Saturday to boost economic ties as sanctions against Syria are lifted. The deals include establishing a joint Syrian-Saudi airline to improve regional and international air travel, along with plans to develop a new international airport in Aleppo and redevelop the existing one. A significant project called SilkLink, involving a US$1 billion investment, aims to upgrade Syria's telecommunications infrastructure and digital connectivity. These agreements are part of Syria's efforts to attract investment and rebuild after years of war, with Saudi Arabia being a major backer of the current Islamist authorities. The new Syrian government has been working to establish economic partnerships with various countries, including Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Bashar al-Assad 40% Damascus 50% Syrian Investment Authority 50% Aleppo 50% Abdulsalam Haykal 60% Talal al-Hilali ×260% Saudi Arabia ×490% Syria ×795%

Keywords

syria 90% saudi arabia 80% telecommunications 70% airline deals 70% infrastructure development 60% investment 60% international airport 50% digital connectivity 50% economic cooperation 40%