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President Donald Trump announced that he has decided to remove Syria from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, marking a major step toward restoring the country’s economic ties and encouraging foreign investment after years of international isolation.
In a letter to Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, seen by Reuters, Trump said he was committed to eliminating obstacles that have hindered 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, adding that U.S. companies are prepared to invest in Syria and support its long-term economic growth.
The letter was delivered to Sharaa following the leaders’ meeting in Ankara on Wednesday, according to a senior U.S. administration official. Trump also confirmed that he had formally notified Congress of the decision. Under U.S. law, lawmakers will conduct a 45-day review before the removal can take effect.
Syria’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism has long imposed restrictions on U.S. foreign assistance, defense exports, and a range of financial transactions. Removing the designation is expected to ease these barriers and improve Syria’s access to international investment and financial markets.
Syria Central Bank Governor Safwat Raslan welcomed the move, saying it would create broader opportunities for investment, accelerate economic recovery, and help reintegrate the country into the global economy. His comments were shared through the bank’s official Telegram channel.
The latest development follows Trump’s executive order last year ending a U.S. sanctions program on Syria, a measure that helped reduce the country’s financial isolation. Gulf nations have also increased their support, with several Saudi companies reportedly preparing billion-dollar investments while other regional governments have pledged additional financial assistance.
Trump also praised Sharaa during Wednesday’s meeting. Sharaa previously led Syria’s Nusra Front before severing ties with al Qaeda in 2016 and later headed a coalition of Islamist rebel groups that overthrew former President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024. Trump commended Sharaa’s efforts against the Islamic State and said, “He’s respected by everybody, including me.”
