IMF sees signs of recovery in Syria, plans intensive engagement

18/11/2025 6:35

The International Monetary Fund said on Monday it planned an "intensive program of engagement" with Syria to help it rebuild its economy, but a statement issued at the end of an IMF staff visit to Damascus did not mention any discussions of financial assistance for the country.



Nearly a year after Syrian rebels ousted longtime leader Bashar al-Assad, Syria is pursuing a strategic realignment away from Iran and towards the U.S. under its new leader, President Ahmed al-Sharaa, and has embarked on an effort to rebuild infrastructure destroyed by a 14-year civil war.



"Syria’s economy is showing signs of recovery and improving prospects, reflecting the improvement in consumer and investor sentiment under Syria’s new regime, Syria’s gradual re-integration with the regional and global economy as sanctions are being lifted, and the return of more than one million refugees," IMF Syria Mission Chief Ron van Rooden said in a statement.