Türkiye discusses port cooperation with Syria: Transport Minister

Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu said Türkiye is in talks with Syria to develop a wide range of cooperation projects in transportation, communication, and port operations, following the country’s post-conflict reconstruction efforts.

Speaking in an interview with Turkish media outlet in Damascus, Uraloglu emphasized the importance of strengthening logistical connections between the two countries. “We discussed all modes of transportation — land, air, sea, and rail — as well as communication,” he said.

Türkiye discusses port cooperation with Syria: Transport Minister — Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu and Syrian Minister of Transportation Yaarub Suleiman Bader (not seen) meet at Damascus International Airport in Damascus, Syria on April 22, 2025. (AA Photo)

Railway link from Gaziantep to Damascus under consideration between Türkiye and Syria

One of the central topics was establishing a railway link from Türkiye’s Gaziantep into Syria.

Uraloglu explained that both sides are exploring how to implement the project and streamline border crossing procedures. Discussions also included increasing air traffic between the countries and facilitating joint work at airports.

“We have reached a point on how to simplify the border crossing,” Uraloglu said, noting progress in negotiations regarding railway and highway connections.

A railway officer is seen from the windows of "Touristic Diyarbakir Express" — A railway officer is seen from the windows of “Touristic Diyarbakir Express”, as it returns from its first journey of the season from Diyarbakir to Ankara Station in Elazig, Türkiye, April 13, 2025. (AA Photo)

Developments at Damascus International Airport

Türkiye is supporting upgrades at Damascus International Airport, according to Uraloglu.

“We have already taken initial steps to ensure flight and passenger safety,” he stated. He added that installation of radar and approach systems is underway and the airport is expected to meet international flight standards by June.

Syria has also requested internet infrastructure support from Türkiye. Uraloglu indicated this proposal would be evaluated further and may be part of a broader cooperation package.

Passengers disembark from a Turkish Airlines aircraft carrying a diplomatic delegation from Ankara and an aid shipment provided by the Turkish Red Crescent, at the Damascus International Airport in the Syrian capital on Jan. 23, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Focus on port operations and Turkish involvement

Regarding maritime infrastructure, Uraloglu confirmed discussions on cooperation at three Syrian ports. Talks included the possibility of Turkish operators participating in port management and shipyard activities.

The minister highlighted a mutual interest in economic collaboration. “We discussed shipyards and the potential for Turkish firms to operate in these ports. We will continue under a win-win strategy,” he said.