Syria, Iraq, Turkey Discuss Transit Cooperation in Ankara

A delegation from Syria's General Authority for Land and Sea Ports and Customs, led by Deputy Head for Customs Affairs Khaled Al Barad, took part in trilateral talks with Iraq and Turkey held in Ankara on Wednesday, September 2. The authority announced details of the talks through its official channels.

Main Discussion Points

The talks addressed strengthening cooperation among the three countries in transport, trade, transit and border connectivity, along with increasing trade volume and facilitating the movement of goods and travelers through border crossings.

• Activating regional transit movement
• Reducing time and logistics costs
• Improving efficiency of transport and supply chains
• Developing coordination mechanisms and information exchange among relevant institutions

Addressing Border Obstacles

The three parties discussed ways to address border and logistical obstacles, and to simplify procedures related to the movement of trucks and goods, aiming to enhance the efficiency of trade corridors linking Iraq, Syria, Turkey and other regional countries.

Syrian Delegation's Position

The Syrian delegation, led by Khaled Al Barad, emphasized the importance of developing the regional transport and transit system and making use of the strategic geographic location of the three countries. The delegation noted that this contributes to strengthening economic and logistical integration, linking border crossings, ports and land and rail transport networks, and opening more efficient trade routes for the region.

Broader Regional Context

The talks form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regional cooperation and integration and develop international trade corridors, supporting trade and transit movement. On August 26, the head of the General Authority for Land and Sea Ports and Customs, Qutaiba Badawi, met with a delegation from the Saudi Syrian Business Council, led by Mohammed Abu Nayyan, to discuss economic and investment cooperation, including ports, free zones and logistics services.