Damascus, Dec. 12 (SANA) Experts in international relations, economics, and law say the U.S. House of Representatives’ vote to repeal the “Caesar Act” marks a major turning point for Syria’s economy, potentially opening the door to new investment and greater economic recovery.
Dr. Najib Yassin Ghadban, dean of the Faculty of Political Science at Damascus University, described the move as “pivotal” for restoring economic recovery, noting that the most challenging phase of the process has been overcome.
“For years,” Ghadban said, “sanctions were the biggest barrier to foreign investment from the European Union, Gulf countries, and international companies alike.” He added that repealing the law could enable new economic initiatives that improve services, infrastructure, and job opportunities, directly benefiting Syrian citizens.
Dr. Qassem Abu Dist, an international economics expert at Damascus University, highlighted the vote as an importance step in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, which he called the backbone of economic and social development. He said a more open international environment, coupled with political support from several countries, could accelerate Syria’s recovery in the coming months.
International law specialist Dr. Jumaa al-Sahoo said the sanctions had a direct impact on Syrians’ daily lives. He added that lifting them would help restore investor confidence, boost investment, and improve public services and infrastructure.
Dr. Nada Malkani, head of the Department of Political Studies at Damascus University, called the repeal “both a political victory and a historic development,” that paves the way for a gradual economic revival, but acknowledged that tangible results on the ground will take time.
The “Caesar Act,” enacted in December 2019, targeted the former regime with over crimes committed against Syrian people. The repeal was included as part of the U.S. Department of Defense budget for 2026.
