IMF sees signs of recovery in Syria, plans intensive engagement

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.