Turkey has lifted trade and transit restrictions with Syria to enhance bilateral trade collaboration. This action follows the removal of Bashar al-Assad and indicates Turkey’s renewed commitment to engage with Syria’s current administration to facilitate economic recovery and agreements on customs tariffs.
On February 11, 2025, Turkey announced the lifting of trade and transit restrictions with Syria, according to the trade ministry. This development is part of Turkey’s efforts to enhance commercial relations following the ousting of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad. Goods exchanged between the neighboring nations will now face the same regulations as those applicable to other countries, signifying a normalization in trade policies.
Since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011, relations between Turkey and Syria had significantly deteriorated. However, following the removal of Assad last year, Turkey has increased engagement with Syria’s new administration and has expressed a commitment to support the country’s reconstruction. Additionally, both governments have agreed to review customs tariffs on specific goods and are initiating discussions to revive a free trade agreement that was suspended back in 2011.
In summary, Turkey’s decision to lift trade restrictions with Syria marks a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations post-conflict. The normalization of trade practices, alongside negotiations on customs tariffs and a potential free trade agreement, underscores Turkey’s renewed engagement with Syria’s new leadership as both nations aim to foster economic cooperation and recovery.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
