Istanbul, SANA-The General Authority for Land and Maritime Ports participated in the Global Transport Connectivity Forum 2025 held in Istanbul on Friday under the patronage of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and with the support of the World Bank.
The Authority’s participation came within the high-level strategic session entitled “Emerging Challenges to Global Connectivity,” which discussed the geopolitical and environmental transformations facing the transport sector, particularly vital sea lanes, and the opportunities available to enhance regional and international cooperation.
Dr. Qutaiba Naji, Deputy Chairman of the General Authority for Land and Maritime Ports for Foreign Affairs, delivered Syria’s speech before representatives of governments, international organizations, and the private sector
He reviewed the transformations Syria has witnessed after fourteen years of war and sanctions, and highlighted the efforts made to rebuild and rehabilitate vital ports and crossings and connect them to the regional and international transport system.
Naji stressed that Syria is no longer a burden, but rather a strategic opportunity, as it is a link between Asia, Europe, and Africa, and enjoys a unique geographical location on the Mediterranean coast.
He also emphasized that reconnecting Syria to international maritime corridors has become an urgent necessity in light of the increasing threats to the security and smooth functioning of global supply chains.
Naji called for building regional cooperation mechanisms to protect maritime corridors, joint investment in smart, low-emission ports, and expanding partnerships between governments, financial institutions, and the private sector, emphasizing Syria’s full readiness to actively engage in these efforts.
MHD Ibrahim
