Türkiye leads diplomatic initiative for Syria’s reconstruction efforts
People sit outside on a street lined with heavily-damaged buildings in the Hajar al-Aswad area near the Yarmuk camp for Palestinian refugees on the southern outskirts of Damascus on December 23, 2024. (AFP Photo)
Türkiye has initiated diplomatic efforts to support Syria‘s reconstruction, focusing on both economic assistance and political stability.
Plans include establishing an international fund, reopening the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency’s (TIKA) office, and addressing urgent infrastructure and humanitarian needs.
Türkiye proposes international fund for Syria’s reconstruction
Türkiye is expected to take a leading role in international aid campaigns and the establishment of a reconstruction fund for Syria, with regional cooperation being a key focus.
- Regional partners, including the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), may play a role in the proposed fund.
- Economic revival is seen as critical for the return of Syrian refugees currently living abroad.
Key priorities include:
- Addressing shortages in schools and hospitals.
- Supporting energy, transportation and communication sectors.
- Facilitating humanitarian aid, including food, shelter and clothing through nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
TIKA resumes operations in Syria
TIKA has restarted its activities in Syria, beginning with restoration projects.
- TIKA teams have started work on Ibn Arabi Mosque’s burial site, focusing on preservation and environmental arrangements.
- Plans are underway to reopen TIKA’s Damascus office, with ongoing coordination involving the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other institutions.
TIKA has outlined future priorities:
- Development-focused collaboration projects.
- Sharing institutional expertise with Syrian counterparts to strengthen local capacities.
- Restoring cultural heritage sites, including those in Aleppo, Homs and Damascus.
Focus on cultural heritage restoration in Syria
Efforts to restore Syria’s historical and cultural landmarks are gaining momentum according to a report by Türkiye Daily.
- Restoration work at the Suleymaniye Complex in Damascus, home to the tomb of Sultan Vahideddin, will resume.
- The restoration project, initially valued at $16 million, was disrupted due to funding challenges during Syria’s conflict.
- Approximately 85% of the restoration work has been completed.
- Funding issues are expected to be addressed through renewed diplomatic engagement with the Syrian government.
