Saudi Arabia and Syria have signed four agreements covering roads, railways, postal services and aviation, the Saudi transport minister told Al Arabiya on Thursday, in a move aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the transport and logistics sectors.
– The minister said the visit also included participation from Saudi Arabia’s private sector, which has extensive expertise in the field as well as a strong interest in contributing to Syria’s ongoing development and reconstruction efforts.
– The agreements come amid growing interest in regional transport and connectivity projects, particularly efforts to develop alternative road and rail corridors that could facilitate trade and transportation between the region, Asia and Europe.
– Syria and Saudi Arabia signed two memoranda of understanding on Thursday to develop railway and road transport links. The agreements are aimed at building capacity, exchanging expertise and conducting the necessary studies to help rehabilitate Syria’s roads and railway infrastructure while boosting transportation and trade through the country.
– In June, Saudi Arabia and Turkey signed memoranda of understanding on a proposed railway linking the two countries through Jordan and Syria, paving the way for the revival of a regional road and rail corridor connecting the Gulf to Turkey and onward to Europe.
– The project has taken on greater logistical significance amid challenges facing maritime shipping and disruptions to global supply chains. Expanded road and railway networks could provide more flexible alternative routes for the movement of goods.