Syrian mou with the Aga Khan Network to enhance development cooperation

Framework and Signatories

Syria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Damascus, aimed at expanding the network's operations in Syria and establishing a structured framework for cooperation with national institutions. The agreement was signed by Qutaiba Kadish, Director of the International Cooperation Department at the Ministry, and Ghatfan Ajoub, AKDN's Resident Representative in Syria.

The MoU builds on the "Framework for Development Cooperation" agreement signed and ratified in 2002, and reflects a long-standing partnership between the two sides spanning several decades.

Financial Commitment and Recovery Goals

The memorandum formalises AKDN's pledge to invest a minimum of €100 million in Syria during 2026 and 2027, a commitment first announced by the network's head, Prince Rahim Aga Khan, at the Brussels Conference in Support of Syria in March 2025. The investment targets sustainable recovery and development, combining immediate humanitarian response with long-term community capacity building.

Coordination and Implementation Mechanisms

The MoU establishes a unified oversight mechanism to coordinate the work of AKDN agencies with Syrian national institutions, enhancing operational governance and ensuring that the network's programmes and projects are aligned with national recovery and rebuilding priorities. This framework is intended to improve the coherence and effectiveness of AKDN's activities across the country.

Cooperation in the Education Sector

As part of the ongoing partnership, the Assistant Minister of Education for Academic Affairs, Youssef Annan, held discussions with AKDN representatives in January on expanding educational cooperation. The areas discussed included:

• Rehabilitation of damaged school buildings
• Strengthening early childhood education
• Teacher training and professional development
• Establishment of vocational training and language learning centres
• Integration of modern technologies into the educational process

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