Doha: Qatar, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have expressed their approval of the United States' recent decision to initiate procedures for removing Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Qatari Foreign Ministry described the US announcement as a positive development that would bolster efforts to achieve stability in Syria and the broader region. It emphasized the importance of advancing a political settlement aligned with international legitimacy resolutions and the aspirations of the Syrian people. The Qatari ministry also reaffirmed its support for Syria's unity, sovereignty, and independence, alongside the Syrian people's quest for security, stability, and prosperity.
In Jordan, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Fouad Majali stated that the US move represents a significant step toward supporting Syria's reconstruction and recovery. Majali reiterated Jordan's commitment to rebuilding Syria on a foundation that preserves its unity, sovereignty, security, stability, territorial integrity, and the rights of all its citizens.
The United Arab Emirates also welcomed US President Donald Trump's announcement, with the Emirati Foreign Ministry noting that the move would aid Syria's recovery and reconstruction. The ministry highlighted the potential for reviving Syria's economy and attracting investment, thus strengthening its integration into the global economy.
Bahrain's Foreign Ministry praised the US initiative, viewing it as a critical step toward supporting Syria's reconstruction and reintegration into global financial and economic systems. The ministry commended Trump's efforts to support Syria, including initiatives to lift economic sanctions and promote regional security, peace, and sustainable development. It also reiterated Bahrain's support for Syria's security, stability, unity, and territorial integrity.
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi expressed his hope that the US decision would bolster regional and international efforts to stabilize Syria. He emphasized the importance of expanding international cooperation with Syria to restore its regional and international standing and further its development and prosperity. Albudaiwi also reaffirmed the GCC's support for Syria's unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, while rejecting any interference in its internal affairs.
The decision to remove Syria from the terrorism sponsor list follows US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's announcement that President Donald Trump had formally notified Congress of the intention to rescind Syria's designation. This designation, placed in 1979 during the rule of late President Hafez al-Assad, has long been considered a key obstacle to Syria's economic recovery. The recent developments follow Trump's meeting with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the NATO summit in Ankara.
Syria has welcomed the US move, describing it as an "important development" in bilateral relations, which could pave the way for economic recovery and further diplomatic engagement.