Qatar is reportedly planning to finance a significant increase in public sector wages promised by Syria’s new government. The development follows the toppling of Bashar al-Assad’s regime and the establishment of a new Islamist administration in Damascus.
This support has been facilitated by a U.S. sanctions exemption issued on Monday, which permits transactions with governing institutions in Syria for six months. The exemption is seen as crucial for enabling international assistance to Syria’s public sector, where a 400% salary increase has been pledged.
An Arab official confirmed that discussions on Qatar’s potential funding are ongoing, though no final agreements have been reached. The official also suggested that other nations, including Saudi Arabia, might join the initiative.
A Saudi official stated on Tuesday that the kingdom remains committed to working with regional and international partners to support Syria. Current Saudi aid is focused on humanitarian needs, such as food, shelter, and medical supplies.
Qatar’s key role
Qatar, a long-standing supporter of the Syrian opposition during the armed uprising against Assad, has been a pivotal force in lobbying Washington for the sanctions exemption. Both a U.S. official and a senior diplomat confirmed that this exemption allows Qatar to channel funds officially to the new Syrian administration.
The recent regime change, led by Syrian rebels under Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), saw Assad ousted on December 8 in a rapid offensive. Since then, the interim government has committed to increasing public sector salaries, which currently amount to $120 million monthly for more than 1.25 million workers.
While foreign funding for these salaries remains unconfirmed, a Syrian finance ministry source indicated there have been general promises of support. The Qatari foreign ministry has yet to respond to inquiries regarding their involvement.
Shifting perceptions of HTS
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, previously designated a terrorist organisation by the U.S., has sought to distance itself from its past affiliations with Al Qaeda. In recent years, HTS has adopted a more moderate stance, aiming to position itself as a legitimate governing body.
The new rulers have pledged to initiate an inclusive political process that represents Syria’s diverse ethnic and religious communities. This commitment has been coupled with outreach to Gulf Arab states, attempting to assuage concerns about their historical affiliations.
Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani has embarked on a diplomatic tour, visiting Riyadh, the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan. These visits signify efforts to solidify international relationships and gather support for stabilising Syria under the new administration.
Qatar’s diplomatic advances
Qatar, a small but influential Gulf nation, has acted swiftly to establish diplomatic ties with the new Syrian government. This includes reopening its embassy in Damascus and resuming Qatar Airways flights between Doha and the Syrian capital.
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Doha severed relations with Assad’s regime in 2011, following the onset of Syria’s civil war. It had also rejected attempts by several Arab nations to normalise ties with Damascus in recent years. Now, Qatar’s rapid engagement with Syria’s new administration highlights its intent to play a leading role in shaping the country’s future.
Broader international engagement
The U.S., European powers, and Arab states have cautiously engaged with Syria’s new leadership. Diplomats suggest this is part of a broader strategy to stabilise the country and encourage a more inclusive political process.
While the White House National Security Council has not commented on the Qatari talks, the recent U.S. sanctions exemption appears to align with such international objectives. The exemption could facilitate Qatar’s involvement in supporting Syria’s public sector and broader recovery efforts.
As these developments unfold, the international community remains watchful of Syria’s fragile political landscape. Qatar’s financial and diplomatic moves may prove pivotal in determining the country’s path towards stability and reconstruction.
