Syrian finance minister discusses economic cooperation with Qatari counterpart in Bangkok

BANGKOK — Syrian Finance Minister Mohammed Yisr Barnieh discussed financial and economic cooperation with Qatari Finance Minister Ali bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari in Bangkok, according to Arab News, which published its report on 17 October 2026.

The two ministers met on the sidelines of the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, Arab News reported. They also discussed Qatar's support for recovery and development efforts in Syria, the outlet said.

According to Arab News, the Syrian Ministry of Finance said Barnieh thanked Qatar for its support in advancing financial reforms and development projects. The ministry said he stressed the need to strengthen cooperation in the coming phase, in line with national priorities. It said the aim was to improve public services and living conditions for citizens.

Arab News said the talks also covered support for a multi-donor trust fund for Syria's reconstruction. The fund is run in cooperation with the World Bank and is meant to support the recovery plan, the outlet reported.

Both sides stressed the importance of continued coordination, according to Arab News. They also spoke of further efforts to develop areas of support and priority projects, with the aim of advancing economic recovery and improving basic services in Syria, the report said.

Meeting with Norway

Arab News reported that Barnieh also met Norway's Minister of International Development, Asmund Aukrust, and his delegation on the sidelines of the same meetings.

According to the outlet, the two sides reviewed Norway's participation in the multi-donor trust fund. The Norwegian side expressed interest in contributing and in providing support, with a focus on healthcare, Arab News said.

They also discussed a poverty reduction strategy that the Syrian government is preparing with relevant ministries, according to the report. Arab News said the Norwegian side expressed interest in the strategy and its proposed programmes, including efforts to reduce poverty rates.

The report did not give details of any financial commitments from Qatar or Norway.