UN chief urges immediate removal of all Syria sanctions

DAMASCUS: United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Sunday (Jul 26) urged the removal of all sanctions imposed on Syria during the era of ousted ruler Bashar al-Assad, as he concluded a two-day visit to the country."I welcome steps that have eased sanctions, and opening new possibilities for economic recovery, but all these sanctions must be removed immediately," Guterres told a press conference in Damascus, describing his trip as a "deeply meaningful and productive visit".Syria's new authorities, who took power in December 2024, are trying to turn the page after more than 13 years of war and to rebuild the economy, infrastructure and institutions.Western countries including the US have eased sanctions on Syria, but investors have remained cautious. The World Bank has estimated the country'