Expanding World Bank grants and broader sector coverage signal a new phase in Syria’s engagement with international financing, pointing to gradual progress in economic recovery.  Beyond direct funding, the projects reflect efforts to rebuild institutions, improve governance and strengthen the investment climate, supporting more sustainable growth.  Finance Minister Mohammed Yisr Barnieh said the World Bank has approved financing for two additional projects, bringing the total to four out of 11 proposed initiatives.  The approved projects include: 1) $146 million to rehabilitate the electricity transmission network, 2) $20 million to strengthen public financial management, 3) $150 million for the water sector, 4) $75 million for the health sector.  Barnieh said the latest two grants, totaling $225 million, focus on improving public services. The water project aims to expand access to clean water and repair sewage networks, while the health project targets primary healthcare services across several medical centers.  Officials say the grants go beyond service-sector funding and form part of a broader effort to restore confidence with international institutions.  Barnieh said additional projects are being prepared for World Bank approval in sectors including education, energy, digital transformation, banking and social protection, with a combined value of nearly $1.4 billion.  He stressed that disciplined implementation and sound financial management are key to attracting further support, noting that successful delivery could encourage wider donor engagement.  He also welcomed growing cooperation with the World Bank, adding that the return of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) would support private sector development alongside public investment.  Economists say the grants carry significance beyond their financial value, as improved infrastructure and essential services can boost productivity, enhance stability and reduce barriers to investment.  Economic researcher Karam Khalil described the funding as an initial step toward easing economic isolation and reconnecting Syria with the global financial system.  He told SANA that its main value lies in supporting institutional reform and governance improvements, rather than short-term financing alone.  Economist Qasim Abu Dast said the grants should be viewed as a catalyst for recovery, with long-term impact depending on better resource management and transparency.  He added that electricity projects could help stabilize areas seeing the return of displaced residents, while supporting local business activity and job creation.  The projects also align with the government’s “Syria Without Camps” initiative, aimed at creating conditions for the return of refugees and internally displaced people.  Barnieh said improving essential services is central to enabling returns and raising living standards, supporting the broader goal of reducing long-term reliance on camps.  Together, the grants form part of a broader strategy focused on, strengthening essential services, advancing institutional reform, encouraging investment, and supporting local recovery and returns.  While challenges remain, economists say the approvals mark an early but practical step in Syria’s long-term recovery, supported by cooperation between national institutions and international partners.  (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: Syrian Arab News Agency