Ankara: Trkiye and Syria are set to commence free 24-hour transit trade through two customs gates on their shared borders starting Thursday, as announced by the Turkish Trade Minister. "Starting tomorrow, 24-hour transit trade will be free at two customs gates, Trkiye's Cilvegozu and Oncupinar, and Syria's Babel Air and Babusselam," Omer Bolat stated during his visit to Syria for the 62nd Damascus International Fair.

According to Anadolu Agency, Bolat highlighted Syria's progress in political stability and social peace since the "December 8 Revolution" and affirmed Trkiye's continued support for Syria in this new era. He mentioned that a significant number of Turkish investors, manufacturers, exporters, and visitors are participating in the fair, noting the Turkish pavilion's prominence with the largest booth.

Bolat also revealed the signing of a cooperation agreement aimed at establishing a joint customs committee, enhancing customs cooperation, and providing training. Meanwhile, Syria's Minister of Economy and Industry, Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar, emphasized efforts to establish a Syrian Exporters' Assembly, which is anticipated to bolster bilateral trade.

Al-Shaar discussed plans for an industrial free zone, with a designated area for Turkish administrators and factories within Syrian territory. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to facilitate the return of Syrians residing in Trkiye to their homeland, as well as addressing deficiencies at customs and border crossings.

The 62nd Damascus International Fair presents an opportunity to explore trade cooperation between Trkiye and Syria. It serves as a platform to review mutually beneficial trade areas and marks a significant step in the customs sector development between the two nations.