Syrian Finance Minister: The Qatari-Saudi Grant Contributed to Covering Employee Salaries and Strengthening Stability

Syrian Finance Minister Mohammad Yasser Barnieh confirmed that the recent Qatari-Saudi grant, valued at approximately $89 million to support the salaries of public sector employees, represents an important step in enhancing economic stability and development in Syria.
Barnieh stated in an interview with the Qatari News Agency (QNA) that the Syrian government highly appreciates the continuous support from Qatar and Saudi Arabia, noting that this support has had a tangible positive impact during and after the Syrian crisis in supporting national institutions and the development process.

A Critical Phase and Support for Vital Sectors

The minister explained that the grant came at a very important stage, as Qatar contributed to energy and electricity projects, which are a fundamental pillar for economic growth and sustainable development.
He also pointed out that Qatari investments in infrastructure have contributed to improving vital services and ensuring their continuity, which enhances the state's ability to implement economic reform plans.

Support for Wages and Financial Reforms

Barnieh indicated that the support from Qatar and Saudi Arabia for contributing to the payment of public sector salaries is an extension of their role in supporting the Syrian economy over the past years.
He added that this support helps the government move forward with reforming the wage system and settling arrears with the World Bank, emphasizing that the grant "reflects Qatar and the Kingdom's commitment to supporting Syria's efforts to achieve economic recovery and restore the path of sustainable development."

Improving Living Standards and Enhancing Trust

The minister noted that the grant will gradually cover about 17% of the salary bill for civil servants, which is an important percentage that enables the government to continue implementing the financial and social reform program.
He confirmed that the initiative will contribute to improving the living standards of employees and stabilizing public services, complementing previous grants that alleviated the living burdens on citizens.


Prospects for Future Cooperation

Barnieh affirmed that the Syrian government seeks to build on this ongoing support to expand cooperation with brotherly and friendly countries, noting that the partnership with Qatar and Saudi Arabia represents a model for Arab developmental cooperation in supporting vital sectors and transferring expertise and technologies.
He explained that this cooperation enhances the capabilities of the Syrian economy to attract investments and improve the quality of basic services, positively reflecting on the lives of citizens and the stability of state institutions.

Background of the Grant

The joint Qatari-Saudi grant was announced last September with a total value of $89 million, through the Qatar Development Fund and the Saudi Development Fund, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The initiative aims to support the salaries of public sector employees and contribute to stabilizing essential services, within the framework of the Syrian National Recovery Program and the reform of the financial and economic system.