SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

Kuwait, SANA- President of the Syrian Arab Repubic, Mr. Ahmad al-Shaara, arrived at “al-Bayan Palace” in the Kuwaiti capital, as he was received by His Highness Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, on his 1st official visit to the State of Kuwait.

President al-Shara and his accompanying delegation arrived earlier Sunday at Kuwait International Airport at a gracious invitation from His Highness Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

Rafah al-Allouni/ Mazen Eyon

Kuwait, SANA- President Ahmad al-Sharaa and his accompanying delegation have arrived in the brotherly State of Kuwait at a gracious invitation from His Highness Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

The visit aims to strengthen fraternal relations and bilateral coordination between Syria and Kuwait, as well as to discuss avenues of joint cooperation in various political and economic fields, serving the interests of both countries and enhancing the joint Arab action.

Upon his arrival at Kuwait International Airport, President al-Sharaa was received by His Excellency the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait, Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya.

Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Damascus, SANA- President Ahmad al-Sharaa has issued a presidential decree disbursing a one-time financial grant to state employees on the occasion of Eid al-Adha.

Text of the Decree:

Based on the requirements of the public interest, it is decreed as follows:

Article (1): A one-time financial grant shall be granted on the occasion of Eid al-Adha as follows:

1. To civilian and military state employees: A lump sum of 500,000 Syrian pounds, only five hundred thousand Syrian pounds.
2. To civil and military pensioners: A lump sum of 300,000 Syrian pounds, only three hundred thousand Syrian pounds.

Article (2): The grant includes permanent and temporary employees, as well as daily-wage workers.

Article (3): This grant is exempt from any taxes or deductions.

Article (4): The Minister of Finance is tasked with implementing the provisions of this decree, which shall take effect from the date of its issuance.

Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Kuwait, SANA-The Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) has emphasized that the official visit of Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and his accompanying delegation to Kuwait on Sunday carries special significance in the course of Kuwaiti-Syrian relations as President al-Sharaa is set to hold official talks with Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in affirmation of Kuwait’s steadfast support for Syria, its people, and its sovereignty.

In a report released Sunday, KUNA highlighted the diplomatic ties between Kuwait and Syria, which officially commenced on October 24, 1963. The relationship experienced a period of disruption between 2012 and 2024 due to Syria’s circumstances during those years. However, on December 30th last year, the ties witnessed a notable revival when Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya visited Damascus as the chair of the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). His visit underscored the commitment of the GCC member states to regional security and stability.

The agency further noted that, on the same day, Kuwait launched the first flights of an air bridge aimed at assisting the Syrian people, reinforcing Kuwait’s leading humanitarian role in supporting Syrians and alleviating hardships. The initiative reflects the solidarity of the Kuwaiti people with Syria and their dedication to providing aid where needed.

The report concluded by stating that, over the past five months, Kuwait has repeatedly affirmed—through numerous statements from its Ministry of Foreign Affairs—its unwavering support for Syria’s unity and sovereignty. The country has also stressed the importance of intensifying international efforts to assist the Syrian people and ease their suffering.

Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Damascus, SANA- Damascus University has climbed 416 positions in the newly released 2025 Round University Ranking (RUR), reaching the 535th place globally compared to its previous rank of 951 last year.

Dr. Marwan al-Ra’i, Director of the Ranking Office at Damascus University, stated to SANA that the university has improved across more than 13 indicators within three of the four main sections of the research-based educational ranking, strengthening its global standing.

He noted that the Round University Ranking (RUR) is one of the recognized international rankings used in university accreditation by ministries of higher education and research worldwide.

Dr. al-Ra’i explained that the ranking evaluates universities based on 20 different criteria, divided into four main sections. Damascus University showed significant progress in research quality and quantity, particularly in scientific collaboration with Arab and international universities.

He added that the university has actively participated in numerous academic events, including an artificial intelligence conference in cooperation with a Jordanian university.

However, he pointed out that the university did not improve in education quality metrics due to its large student population, exceeding 200,000 students, compared to the limited number of faculty members.

Dr. Al-Ra’i also noted that the 2025 Round University Ranking includes Al-Zaytoonah International University in the city of Azaz, north of Aleppo, alongside Damascus University.

It is worth mentioning that Damascus University is currently listed in 19 global rankings, a significant jump from the mere four rankings it was included in at the end of 2023.

Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Abuja, SANA- Nigerian authorities have announced that at least 151 people have died due to flooding caused by heavy rainfall that struck the town of Mokwa in central Nigeria.

Ibrahim Hussaini, spokesperson for the local emergency agency, told CNN: “151 bodies have been found, including those of many children during rescue operations,” noting that the death toll could rise as search efforts continue.

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, regularly experiences flooding during the rainy season from May to September. Last year, over 200 people lost their lives, and 386,000 were displaced from their homes due to floods that affected the northern regions of the country.

Rafah al-Allouni/ Ruaa Jazaeri

Damascus, SANA- The final qualifiers for the 9th season of Arab Reading Challenge Initiative have commenced at Damascus Opera House, with the participation of 97 students from several governorates.

Rafah al-Allouni/ Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Aleppo, SANA – Dr. Osama Ra’adoun, President of Aleppo University, met Saturday with Stefano Ravagnan, Italy’s Ambassador to Syria, to discuss ways of strengthening academic and cultural cooperation between the university and Italian institutions.

During their meeting at Aleppo University, the two sides explored opportunities for developing partnership between the university and Italian academic institutions.

They focused on areas such as scientific research and student exchange programs, aiming to build scientific and cultural partnerships that benefit both countries.

The Italian Ambassador’s visit to Aleppo University came as part of ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations between Syria and Italy, particularly in the educational and cultural spheres.

Rafah al-Allouni/ Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Damascus, SANA – The Governor of Damascus, Mr. Maher Marwan, has affirmed that the “Buildex 22” International Construction Exhibition contributes to enhancing the investment environment and facilitating expertise exchange.

He highlighted the significance of the participation of over 740 local and international companies and their role in supporting Syria’s reconstruction and development efforts.

During his visit to the exhibition on Saturday, the Governor of Damascus reviewed the latest technologies and materials used in the construction sector.

He commended the high level of organization at the exhibition and its role in opening new avenues for cooperation between the public and private sectors in construction, infrastructure improvement, digital transformation, urban and environmental development, and other fields that enhance the quality of life.

Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Cairo, SANA -The Northern Egyptian city of Alexandria experienced severe and unprecedented storms on Saturday, accompanied by heavy thunderstorms and torrential rain, causing concern among residents due to the sudden shift in weather conditions. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported.

According to Egypt’s Central Operations Room at the Ministry of Health, no injuries or deaths have been recorded due to the extreme weather. Authorities have urged citizens to exercise caution and follow official safety guidelines.

Minister of Social Solidarity, Dr. Maya Morsy, has called for heightened preparedness to address the ongoing weather fluctuations affecting multiple Egyptian provinces. A central operations room has been activated in coordination with local authorities.

The Egyptian Meteorological Authority reported that Alexandria is currently experiencing unstable weather, with strong winds reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h, intensifying the feeling of cold despite the onset of summer. The winds have also stirred up sand and dust in several areas.

Mahmoud al-Qayati, an official at the Meteorological Authority, stated that crisis rooms have been activated in affected provinces, predicting continued rainfall along the northern coast and Nile Delta on Saturday, with gradual improvement expected on Sunday as temperatures stabilize during the holiday period.

Alexandria Governor Ahmed Khaled Hassan Saeed has instructed all executive agencies to remain on high alert, ensuring immediate response to any potential consequences.

He emphasized the importance of continuous field presence to monitor rainwater drainage operations, with the governorate’s operations center and control unit actively tracking the situation and intervening swiftly in case of water accumulation.

Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Berlin, SANA- Paris Saint-Germain has achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever UEFA Champions League title with a dominant 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the final, held at Allianz Arena in Munich.

The Parisian side started the match with intensity, asserting control from the opening minutes. Achraf Hakimi set the tone by scoring the first goal in the 12th minute. Just eight minutes later, Desire Doue doubled the lead with a powerful strike that deflected off Inter defender Federico Dimarco and found the net.

Doue continued his stellar performance, adding a third goal in the 63rd minute. Georgian star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia extended PSG’s lead further with a fourth goal in the 72nd minute. The final blow came in the closing moments when Senny Mayulu sealed the victory with PSG’s fifth goal, confirming their status as European champions.

With this triumph, PSG ends years of anticipation and numerous attempts to claim Europe’s most prestigious club title, cementing their place among football’s elite with a well-deserved and exceptional performance.

Ruaa al-Jazaeri

Damascus, SANA–Minister of Finance Mohammed Yisr Barnieh expressed his gratitude to our brothers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar for the proposed financial grant to support part of the public sector salaries for three months in Syria.

“We also appreciate the support of Saudi Arabia and Qatar in helping to develop relations with regional and international financial institutions and enhance the contribution of these institutions and organizations to supporting development in Syria.” Minister Barnieh told SANA.

He noted that this support is a clear expression of the true partnership established by the leaders of the three countries.

“We look forward to welcoming Saudi and Qatari investors and other investors from brotherly and friendly countries to take advantage of the great and promising investment opportunities in Syria.” Minister Barnieh added.

MHD Ibrafhim

Damascus, SANA-Minister of Local Administration and Environment, Eng. Mohammed Anjrani, stressed that reconstruction is Syria’s primary need, and that the expected scope of its coverage cannot be undertaken by a single entity.

He highlighted the importance of multiple sources of funding for reconstruction, including investments, donors, UN organizations, government institutions, and youth energies.

In a statement to the media after today’s tour of the pavilions of the BUILDEX 22 International Construction Exhibition, Minister Anjarani said that the ministry is in the final stages of re-establishing and developing regulatory plans in accordance with the principles adopted by developing and strong countries.

He indicated that the final stages of concluding contracts with several companies have been reached, including the signing of a contract to build a commercial investment tower in Damascus, the tallest in Syria.

In a similar statement, Finance Minister Mohammad Mohammed Yisr Barnieh affirmed that Syria’s doors are open for investment and construction, as a part of stability and growth in the region.

He noted that the government provides all necessary facilities for investors, assisting them in establishing their projects and ensuring their success.

Minister Barnieh noted that the BUILDEX exhibition provides an opportunity for industrialists and entrepreneurs to connect, share experiences, and learn about promising investment opportunities in Syria.

MHD Ibrahim

Damascus, SANA-The BUILDEX International Construction Exhibition, which concluded Wednesday evening at the Fairgrounds, resulted in hundreds of deals and agreements concluded across all exhibition pavilions.

Dozens of companies also announced major investments in Syria, and dozens more decided to open regional offices in the country.

The Arab Group for Exhibitions and Conferences, the organizer of the exhibition, said in a statement that the exhibition, which featured 740 companies from 34 countries, attracted more than 100,000 visitors over its five days.

The group added that these deals and agreements concluded during the exhibition, and the thousands of relationships formed between participants and visitors, contributed to bridging the knowledge and technical gap between Syria and abroad in the field of construction, after 15 years of isolation.

It commended the efforts of the Syrian government in supporting the exhibition, represented by the General Organization for International Fairs and Markets, and its cooperation and provision of all necessary facilities.

The group also commended the efforts of the participants, who presented their products and services in the most appropriate and attractive manner, in accordance with international exhibition standards.

MHD Ibrahim

Damascus-SANA-Minister of Economy and Industry Dr. Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar affirmed that investment opportunities in Syria are available to all today.

noting that the ministry’s role is to facilitate the reconstruction and restoration of Syria’s former glory and its cultural status.

Dr. Al-Shaar told a SANA repoter during his tour of the BUILDEX 22 International Construction Exhibition, “We aspire to build Syria on solid foundations, different from what it was in previous years.”

He explained that the reluctance of international companies under the former regime to operate in the country was due to their refusal to become brokerage firms in the hands of certain individuals.

In a statement to the media, Minister Al-Shaar praised the excellent organization of the exhibition and the active presence of various local, Arab, and foreign companies, which reflects the great interest of these companies in coming, working, investing, and participating in the construction and reconstruction phase of Syria.

MHD Ibrahim

Damascus, SANA-The Anti-Narcotics Department, in cooperation with the Internal Security Directorate in al-Safira, Aleppo countryside, seized a large quantity of hashish intended for smuggling to a European country.

“the Anti-Narcotics Department, in cooperation with the Internal Security Directorate in al-Safira, was able to seize an estimated 800 kilograms of hashish, hidden inside barrels used to transport food supplies, in preparation for smuggling it to a European country.”The Ministry of Interior said in a statement on Saturday.

The Ministry added that the members of the cell involved in the attempted hashish smuggling were arrested and referred to the competent judiciary for necessary legal action.

MHD Ibrahim

Damascus, SANA-Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Asaad al-Shaibani met Sudipto Mukerji as the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Syria.

During the meeting, they discussed ways to boost cooperation between Syria and the program in the areas of development and relief, and to strengthen the partnership with the United Nations to support recovery and reconstruction efforts in light of the current economic and humanitarian challenges.

MHD Ibrahim

Damascus, SANA-Foreign and Expatriates Minister Asaad al-Shaibani affirmed that Syria and Saudi Arabia are entering a strong phase of joint investment and economic cooperation.

“We discussed many issues, and there was a dedicated meeting in the fields of economy, energy, and joint investment. I extend special thanks to the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its diplomatic institutions. The support they have provided to Syria since the moment of liberation has been clear, constructive, and profound” During a joint press conference with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, at Tishreen Palace in Damascus, Minister al-Shaibani said.

Minister al-Shaibani added: “We are particularly grateful for the role played by Saudi Arabia, especially in lifting sanctions, as these measures weakened the Syrian people. They did not target regimes, but rather targeted our survival and recovery. We are fully aware that lifting sanctions is only the beginning. The real work has begun now, and our government has already begun taking serious steps to prioritize the provision of basic services in all governorates. The focus is clear and urgent on the areas of energy, electricity, water, fuel, food, and medicine that every Syrian citizen deserves.”

Al-Shaibani continued “Two days ago, we signed a major energy agreement that will bring light back to Syria. This is the kind of progress we are committed to delivering, not just in words but in deeds, rebuilding Syria is not just about repairing what has been destroyed, but also about building something better.”

The minister pointed out that Syria and the Kingdom are entering a strong phase of joint investment and economic cooperation. These strategic initiatives aim to rebuild infrastructure, revive agriculture, revitalize the economy, and create real job opportunities for Syrians.

Minister al-Shaibani added: This is the choice Syria is making: economic sovereignty through a strategic alliance, the strength of the partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia lies in mutual interests, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a stable region built by stable countries.

Minister al-Shaibani stressed that Syria’s reconstruction will not be imposed from outside Syria, but will be built by and for the Syrian people, and that Saudi Arabia will have a pivotal role in this phase. The investment frameworks developed by Syria focus on mutual benefit, transparency, and respect for Syria’s sovereignty. He noted that the challenges are great, and that years of war have left scars not only on cities but also in hearts. Despite this, Syrians are determined to heal, and this requires justice and recognition of sacrifices.

Minister al-Shaibani said “our government has been honored to facilitate the performance of the Hajj pilgrimage for hundreds of Syrian families, especially the families of martyrs, who were wounded or maimed forever because of their struggle against the Assad regime. Their journey to the Sacred House of God is not only a reward for their patience, but it is a symbol of the Syria we seek to build, a Syria that honors its heroes, protects its weakest, does not forget those who have suffered, and refuses to leave anyone behind. This is the spirit of this new phase, this is the identity of the new Syria, a homeland that returns to its natural place in the region with humility, strength, and an outstretched hand towards partnership.”

For his part, the Saudi Foreign Minister said: “I discussed with His Excellency President Ahmad al-Sharaa opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation in various fields, reflecting the fraternal and historical ties between the two countries and peoples. During this visit, I expressed the Kingdom’s aspiration to strengthen the partnership with our brothers in Syria, which will contribute to consolidating stability and supporting opportunities for economic advancement, positioning Syria in its natural position and status.”

“The Kingdom appreciates the US President’s response to lifting sanctions on Syria. It also appreciates the similar announcement by the United Kingdom and the European Union countries, and the steps that will strengthen the Syrian people’s confidence in their future. Lifting sanctions will contribute to revitalizing the Syrian economy, which has been paralyzed for decades, and this will quickly translate into further development, stability, and prosperity. The Kingdom, in partnership with the State of Qatar, will provide joint financial support to public sector workers in Syria.” Minister Faisal bin Farhan added.

The Saudi Foreign Minister continued: “We discussed investment support and economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. Today, we are accompanied by a senior economic delegation to hold discussions to enhance cooperation across various economic, investment, and trade sectors. This will be followed by economic delegations in the coming days, including a large number of businessmen from the Kingdom, in the fields of energy, agriculture, trade, infrastructure, and information and communication technologies.”

Minister Faisal bin Farhan said: “We affirm that the Kingdom will remain at the forefront of countries that stand by Syria in the process of reconstruction and economic recovery. There is a great desire from investors in the Kingdom to take advantage of these opportunities, in dealing with our Syrian brothers, which enhances the common interests of the two countries.”

“Syria has many opportunities and capabilities, the Syrian people have proven abroad and around the world their ability to innovate and succeed in various fields. Today, they have an opportunity to advance their country, and we are with them, hand in hand, under the directives of His Highness the Crown Prince, Prime Minister, to provide all forms of support and assistance to the Syrian people. We are working closely and continuously with the Syrian government in efforts and endeavors to achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people and strengthen their national unity in a way that embodies the fraternal and historical relations between the two brotherly countries.” The Saudi Foreign Minister concluded.

MHD Ibrahim

Damascus, SANA – Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Asaad al-Shaibani met in Damascus with a delegation from Amnesty International, headed by Ms. Christine Beckerle, Deputy Director of the organization’s Middle East and North Africa Regional Office, and discussed a number of common issues.

Reem Abdulhameed / MHD Ibrahim

Lattakia, SANA-Civil Defense firefighting teams, the Agriculture Directorate’s fire brigade, and local residents are continuing their efforts to extinguish a forest fire that broke out in the Safkoun area in the Lattakia countryside.

Civil Defense stated that firefighting teams are facing significant difficulties in controlling the fire due to high wind speeds and the difficult mountainous terrain, which hinders fire trucks from reaching all areas.

MHD Ibrahim