Turkey has lifted trade and transit restrictions with Syria, signaling an intent to boost trade following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. Goods between the two countries will now be treated similarly to trade with other nations, as Ankara seeks to strengthen ties with the new administration. Discussions on customs tariffs and a previously suspended free trade agreement are set to commence.
On February 11, 2025, Turkey’s trade ministry announced the removal of trade and transit restrictions on Syria. This decision advances Turkey’s goals to enhance trade relations following the ousting of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad. Henceforth, goods moving between the two nations will adhere to the same regulations as those shared with other countries.
Following the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011, relations between Ankara and Damascus had severely deteriorated. In the wake of Assad’s removal last year, Turkey has significantly increased its engagement with Syria’s new administration, committing to aid in the country’s reconstruction efforts.
In conjunction with this announcement, Turkey and the Syrian administration have decided to re-evaluate customs tariffs on specific products and initiate discussions aimed at reinstating a free trade agreement that was suspended in 2011. This cooperative approach signals a potential economic partnership in the post-conflict context.
The lifting of trade restrictions signifies Turkey’s strategic shift towards enhancing its commercial relations with Syria after a prolonged period of disengagement. By normalizing trade conditions and revisiting previous agreements, both nations aim to foster economic recovery and development following the Syrian civil war. This move reflects Turkey’s commitment to collaboration and rebuilding efforts in the region.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
