Baladi News - Journals
President Donald Trump said on Monday that Saudi Arabia would assume Washington's role in funding Syria’s reconstruction.
The announcement comes at a time when the US is moving to end its involvement in the nearly eight-year conflict.
It follows last week’s announcement of an abrupt US troop exit from the war-torn country.
The planned pull-out has raised questions over who would assume responsibility for reconstruction and stabilisation, especially in areas liberated from ISIS.
“Saudi Arabia has now agreed to spend the necessary money needed to help rebuild Syria, instead of the United States,” Mr Trump said on Twitter.
“Isn’t it nice when immensely wealthy countries help rebuild their neighbours.”
Mr Trump did not specify how much money the kingdom was willing to commit to recovery efforts.
Saudi Arabia in August pledged $100 million (Dh367.25m) to help stabilise parts of Syria no longer held by ISIS.
It was not immediately clear whether the kingdom has promised to provide more funds.
Syria’s postwar reconstruction is expected to cost $300 billion to $400 billion.
Source: The National.