Syrian President al-Sharaa discusses sanctions relief with Trump in phone call

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa held a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday, discussing support for the Syrian economy and current regional developments, according to an official statement from the Syrian presidency.

The central focus of the call was al-Sharaa's request for the lifting of remaining U.S. sanctions against Syria. The Syrian president described this step as essential for reviving the Syrian economy and attracting investment. The sanctions, imposed over several years, have significantly burdened Syria's economy and complicated international business activities.

Al-Sharaa leads Syria's transitional government following the fall of the Assad regime. His administration has been actively seeking international recognition and economic support for rebuilding the war-torn country. The phone call with Trump represents a significant diplomatic contact that suggests a possible realignment of U.S.-Syrian relations.

According to the Syrian presidency, the conversation also focused on creating favorable conditions for resuming economic and infrastructure projects in key sectors of the Syrian economy. Al-Sharaa emphasized the need to encourage investment and establish conditions for sustainable economic recovery.

Syria's economy has been severely damaged after years of civil war and international isolation. Large portions of the country's infrastructure were destroyed, and the nation requires massive investment for reconstruction. Lifting sanctions would enable international companies to re-engage with the Syrian market and support rebuilding projects.

The conversation between al-Sharaa and Trump comes at a critical time for Syria. The new leadership is attempting to stabilize the country and secure international support for reconstruction efforts. Simultaneously, it is working to normalize relations with Western countries that had isolated the Assad regime for years.

Regional developments were also discussed during the phone call, though no specific details about these discussion points were disclosed. Syria plays an important role in Middle Eastern regional geopolitics, and its stabilization has implications for the entire region.

The fact that Trump engaged in the conversation with al-Sharaa could indicate U.S. willingness to reconsider relations with Syria under its new leadership. Previously, the United States had maintained a cautious stance toward Syria's transitional government.

For Syria, international recognition and economic support are crucial for the country's future. The phone call with the U.S. president could represent an important step toward normalizing relations and easing the economic restrictions that have burdened the country for years.

The timing of this diplomatic engagement is particularly significant as Syria's transitional government seeks to establish legitimacy both domestically and internationally. Economic reconstruction remains the most pressing challenge, requiring not only the lifting of sanctions but also substantial international investment and technical assistance.

While the full details of the conversation remain undisclosed, the public acknowledgment of the call by the Syrian presidency suggests both sides view this engagement as potentially beneficial for future bilateral relations.