Syria will participate in private discussions with G7 finance ministers and central bank governors during a meeting in Paris on Monday, according to a source with knowledge of the arrangements, representing another milestone in the nation’s rising international profile following Bashar al-Assad’s departure from power less than two years ago.
Syrian Finance Minister Yisr Barnieh is anticipated to join the gathering, with conversations expected to center on Syria’s long-term economic recovery and efforts to reconnect with international financial networks, the source indicated.
The G7 finance leaders are holding a two-day conference addressing worldwide economic challenges, including trade disputes and consequences from ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Years of warfare and international isolation have left Syria’s economy severely weakened. Although many sanctions have been reduced or eliminated following former president Assad’s departure, economic rebuilding has progressed slowly as investors and financial institutions remain cautious about compliance concerns and the logistical challenges of reestablishing Syria’s connections to worldwide financial networks.
Both Syria and Ukraine are anticipated to participate in portions of the meetings, highlighting the G7’s focus on supporting stability in nations considered crucial for regional and international security.
The informed source noted that Syria’s involvement represents preparation for the G7 leaders’ summit scheduled for June and demonstrates efforts to draw President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s administration closer to major world economies.
For Damascus, taking part in G7 financial discussions represents another milestone in its campaign to rejoin the international community, secure reconstruction assistance, and demonstrate its emerging role as an important player in regional transformation.
