SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

Turkey announced plans to launch its first domestically produced high-speed train next year as part of its efforts to localize railway vehicle manufacturing and strengthen national transportation capabilities, according to the 2026 Presidential Annual Program.

Anadolu Agency reported that the project is being implemented by TÜRASAŞ, the Turkish Railway Vehicles Industry Corporation based in Sakarya Province in western Turkey. The train will reach a top speed of 225 kilometers per hour, while nine locally made electric trains, each capable of 160 km/h, are also scheduled for operation next year.

The agency added that the project is expected to support the national economy by approximately 3.5 billion Turkish liras (about $84 million) annually, with a production capacity of 12 high-speed train sets per year.

This development comes within Turkey’s broader plans to expand its railway network and increase reliance on domestic industries in carrying out major infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and energy efficiency in the transport sector.

The Ministry of Defence announced that it will “very soon” begin receiving return requests from volunteer officers who left service after completing all required internal measures.

Asaad Ghliyoun, Director of Media and Communication at the ministry, wrote on his official Facebook page that “volunteer officers are an essential part of the new army, and for their role in the early separation from the treacherous army and their participation in the Syrian revolution“, and the ministry’s ongoing administrative reforms.

He explained that the decision follows the completion of essential procedures and the near conclusion of the file related to officers who had left service.
“The delay,” Ghliyoun said, “was only due to the need to finalise basic steps that paved the way for this decision.”

The ministry did not specify an exact date for the start of the process but confirmed that the announcement will be made through its official channels once all administrative steps are concluded.

At least 40 people were killed and dozens injured in an attack that targeted a funeral gathering in the city of el-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan State in central Sudan, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) announced Wednesday.

Agence France-Presse (AFP) quoted OCHA as saying in a statement that “forty civilians were killed and dozens injured on Tuesday in an attack targeting a funeral gathering in el-Obeid,” noting that violence has continued in the Darfur region in recent days, including airstrikes and drone activity.

For weeks, el-Obeid has been under a siege imposed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), while fighting has intensified in the Kordofan region, a strategic area linking Khartoum to Darfur in western Sudan.

The attack comes amid rising security tensions in Sudan, following the RSF’s takeover of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, on October 26, after a year-long siege.

Presidential Media Adviser Dr. Ahmad Zaidan affirmed that the upcoming visit of President Ahmad al-Sharaa to the United States of America, during which he will meet U.S. President Donald Trump, constitutes a historic event as it will be the first official visit by a Syrian President to the White House.

“This step represents an important move toward inaugurating a new phase in relations between the two countries, aimed at alleviating the suffering of the Syrian people,” Zaidan said.

In an interview with Al Arabiya TV, Zaidan explained that Syria now adopts an approach based on mutual respect and shared interests in its relations with other countries, seeking to promote stability and security domestically and regionally without joining any blocs or alliances.

He noted that President al-Sharaa’s visit comes within the framework of Syrian diplomatic openness that began after the December 8 victory, which restored Syria to its natural position on the international stage. He added that the President has met with a number of leaders of permanent member states of the UN Security Council, and revealed that upcoming visits will include China and Latin America.

Zaidan stated that the visit to Washington will address several key issues, foremost among them lifting the sanctions imposed on Syria under the Caesar Act, and the role expected from President Trump’s administration in supporting this path, along with discussions on bilateral relations and regional issues of mutual concern. He pointed out that the U.S. Congress is currently discussing the final draft of legislation related to sanctions, in preparation for presenting it to the UN Security Council.

Zaidan stressed that Syria’s openness to the world reflects the beginning of a new chapter in international relations after years of isolation, emphasizing that the visit of President al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani to Washington on November 10 and 11 represents an important step toward strengthening bilateral relations and alleviating the suffering of the Syrian people.

He added that Arab and Gulf support, particularly from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and His Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has played a major role in convincing the United States of the necessity of lifting the sanctions imposed on Syria.

Zaidan also commended the roles of Jordan, Qatar, the UAE, and Turkey in supporting this unified Arab approach.

He pointed out that Syrian–U.S. relations still face a number of challenges, including Israel’s stance, which seeks to obstruct rapprochement through military aggression and exploitation of other issues, stressing that Syrian diplomacy has dealt with these provocations with strategic patience and political wisdom, despite Israel’s repeated violations of Syrian territory.

A delegation from the Syrian Postal Corporation is participating in the regional workshop for the Operational Readiness for E-Commerce (ORE3) project, held in Qatar under the auspices of the Universal Postal Union (UPU)and with the participation of representatives from 17 Arab countries, aiming to strengthen Arab cooperation and exchange expertise in the postal sector.

According to a post on the Corporation’s official Facebook page, the workshop discusses operational readiness for e-commerce, disaster risk management, and the impact of risks on service continuity.

During the event, which began on November 2 and continues until November 6, participants gained advanced knowledge in e-commerce through presentations highlighting regional experiences and best practices. The Syrian delegation also took part in a case study exercise aimed at developing a plan to ensure the continuity of postal services in emergency situations.

On the sidelines of the workshop, the Syrian delegation—which includes Engineer Mohammad Wajih Sirfi, Head of the Investment Department, and Engineer Khalid Salem, member of the Steering Committee—visited Qatar Post to review the latest technological advancements and digital transformation efforts in postal services.

In a statement to SANA, Director General of the Syrian Postal Corporation Imad al-Din Hamad said that the Corporation is witnessing unprecedented expansion and international openness, which will positively reflect on its operations and service quality in the near future. He added that the Corporation continues to enhance its regional and international presence, establishing an active role in the Middle East through expanding partnerships and cooperation with global postal institutions.

This participation underscores the Corporation’s commitment to developing its operational capacities and keeping pace with global digital transformations, thereby strengthening Syria’s position in international postal forums.

Minister of Justice Mazhar Abdul Rahman al-Wais met with a delegation from the Arab Lawyers Union to discuss ways to strengthen legal cooperation and exchange perspectives on shared professional and legal issues

The meeting focused on supporting union and legal work in Syria and developing mechanisms of cooperation between the Ministry and the Union in a way that serves the legal profession and contributes to upholding justice and the rule of law.

Minister al-Wais stressed the importance of activating communication with Arab and international professional unions, highlighting their role in exchanging expertise and advancing judicial and legal reform pathways.

MHD Ibrahim

The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Syria held a reception Wednesday to commemorate its national “Victory Day,” at the Golden Mazzeh Hotel in Damascus.

In his speech, Charge d’ affairs of the Embassy of Azerbaijan Republic in Damascus, Mr. Elnur Shahhuseynov, affirmed that November 8 is one of the most significant national days in Azerbaijan’s modern history. The republic celebrates Victory Day as a symbol of restored national sovereignty and the liberation of Azerbaijani territories.

Shahhuseynov noted that on November 10, 2020, a trilateral agreement was signed between Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Russia, bringing an end to the war and affirming Azerbaijan’s victory. He added that President Ilham Aliyev declared November 8 a national holiday named “Victory Day,” in honor of restoring historical justice and territorial unity.

The Azerbaijani people demonstrated a unique example of patience and commitment to justice, showcasing their belief in the strength of the modern state, which, through political and military reforms, was able to reclaim its lands lawfully and rightfully, he stated.

The chargé d’affaires pointed out that Azerbaijani citizens celebrate this day annually with festivals, military parades, and the raising of national flags across the country.

Shahhuseynov concluded by stressing that Victory Day stands as a symbol of national pride, triumph, and dignity in Azerbaijan. It is a day that commemorates the history of a nation that reclaimed its rights through faith, justice, and strength.

MHD Ibrahim

As part of ongoing efforts to secure liberated areas and remove remnants of the defunct regime, engineering units of the Syrian Arab Army have continued operations in Kafr Nabouda in northern Hama countryside.

According to statistics from the Syrian Ministry of Defense, civilian losses in Kafr Nabouda since its liberation due to remnants of the former regime include the deaths of seven civilians and injuries to sixteen others. Additionally, around ten vehicles and fifteen tractors were damaged by landmine explosions in the surrounding farmland.

The Syrian Ministry of Defense is working to boost the personnel in engineering units and increase the number of teams operating in Kafr Nabouda, Hama countryside. The goal is to accelerate mine detection and clearance operations, enabling residents to safely return to their lands, resume normal life, and secure agricultural zones and public roads.

MHD Ibrahiim

The Syrian Ministry of Health signed a donation agreement with Atlantic Humanitarian Relief (AHR) to provide advanced Siemens CT scanners to Al-Mouwasat Hospital in Damascus and Aisha Hospital in Al-Bukamal, Deir Ezzor.

Health Minister Musab al-Ali stated that the donation is a part of the “Restoring Hope” campaign aimed at improving healthcare services and quality, in partnership with local and international organizations.

AHR founder Humam Aqbeq noted that the equipment will benefit both the public health and medical education sectors. Installation is expected within five months, including construction of dedicated rooms.

Al-Mouwasat was selected for its role as a major trauma center requiring 24/7 imaging, while the device in Al-Bukamal will spare patients from traveling 132 km to Deir ez-Zor, serving a population of around 300,000.

The Syrian Ministry of Interior has announced that legal actions are underway against an individual who assaulted a traffic police officer in Damascus, following the circulation of a video on social media showing the incident.

Ministry spokesperson Nour Eddin Al-Baba confirmed that the man, who falsely claimed to be intelligence, will be held accountable for confronting and attacking the officer while he was on duty. The footage sparked widespread attention online.

In a statement shared via his Telegram channel, Al-Baba praised the officer’s professionalism and restraint in the face of provocation, describing the incident as a reflection of the ministry’s values and commitment to ethical conduct.

He added that the perpetrator is now subject to legal proceedings and will be referred to the competent judiciary.

The ministry reaffirmed its confidence in Syria’s legal institutions and emphasized that adherence to the rule of law remains the path to justice and accountability.

The Syrian Ministry of Energy, represented by the General Authority for Water Resources, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the international NGO ACTED to enhance cooperation in water resource management and support projects aimed at improving water networks and securing drinking water for local communities.

Under the agreement, both parties will collaborate on joint water initiatives, exchange technical data and research, and invest in capacity-building for national personnel. ACTED has committed to adhering to the technical and humanitarian standards recognized by the Syrian Arab Republic.

The Ministry, in turn, will facilitate procedures, provide technical support and relevant data, and oversee project implementation to ensure optimal results on the ground.

This partnership is part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to reinforce water security, advance development and humanitarian response programs, and promote the sustainable use of vital resources to improve citizens’ quality of life.

Daraa Governor Anwar Taha Al-Zoubi and Italian Ambassador to Syria Stefano Ravagnan toured the ancient city of Bosra al-Sham, visiting its famed archaeological citadel and other historic landmarks recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The visit highlighted the city’s rich cultural legacy and its significance as one of Syria’s most treasured heritage sites. Discussions during the tour focused on expanding cultural and tourism cooperation between Syria and Italy, with particular emphasis on supporting restoration and preservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding Bosra’s historical assets.

Ambassador Ravagnan expressed deep admiration for the beauty of the citadel and the enduring history of the city, describing the site as a testament to Syria’s ancient civilization and architectural heritage.

The visit is part of broader efforts by local authorities to revitalize historical tourism in southern Syria and attract international interest in the region’s cultural landmarks.

President of the Syrian Arab Republic, Ahmad al-Sharaa, will take part in the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), hosted in the Brazilian city of Belém from November 6th to 21st.

According to a statement by the Presidential Media Directorate, President al-Sharaa will undertake an official visit to Brazil on November 6th and 7th to attend the summit, which brings together dozens of world leaders and heads of states.

The visit will witness bilateral meetings with participating delegations and leaders on the sidelines of the conference.

This marks the first time a Syrian president takes part in such summit since its inception in 1995.

COP30 is one of the most prominent global climate events under the UN framework, gathering representatives from over 190 countries annually.

The 2025 edition will focus on assessing national commitments to reduce carbon emissions and accelerating the transition to clean energy, amid growing warnings about the intensifying impacts of global warming and rising temperatures.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza confirmed the receipt of 15 bodies of deceased Palestinians released on Wednesday by Israeli authorities through coordination with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). This brings the total number of bodies handed over to the ministry to 285.

To date, forensic teams have successfully identified 84 of the recovered bodies. The Ministry continues to work diligently to complete the identification process for the remaining individuals.

Medical teams are handling all remains in accordance with internationally recognized health protocols and forensic standards. The Ministry is committed to ensuring that each case undergoes thorough examination, documentation, and preparation for dignified return to the families.

Syria’s National Commission for Missing Persons announced on Wednesday a new framework for cooperation with several prominent international organizations to address the issue of missing and forced disappearances in the country.

The collaboration, which includes the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP), the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in Syria, and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), was formalized in a joint statement at a press conference in Damascus.

The new principles for cooperation highlight the commitment of both Syrian and international organizations to uncover the fate and whereabouts of thousands of missing persons and to supporting the families of the missing.

The international organizations pledged technical and institutional support for Syria’s National Commission on Missing Persons, ensuring a coordinated effort to achieve truth, justice, and accountability. This agreement marks a significant step toward addressing one of Syria’s most persistent and unresolved humanitarian crises.

Syrian Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Kabawat discussed with her Lebanese counterpart Haneen al-Sayed the importance of sustainable development as a key factor in creating the necessary conditions for the return of Syrian refugees from Lebanon.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the World Summit for Social Development in Doha, and focused on mobilizing support to enhance social and economic stability in host communities

Both ministers underlined the need for regional and international cooperation to advance development programs that promote stability, self-reliance, and equitable recovery, emphasizing that sustainable development and dignified return are mutually reinforcing goals.

Syrian Minister of Education Mohammed Abdulrahman Turko met with Qatar’s Minister of Education and Higher Education Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater on the sidelines of the 43rd session of UNESCO’s General Conference, held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

The meeting, attended by delegations from both countries, discussed ways to strengthen educational and scientific cooperation and exchange expertise across various fields of education. The talks also addressed sharing experiences in curriculum development and building human capacities to enhance the quality of education.

Minister Tarko expressed his appreciation for Qatar’s continued support for education in Syria, stressing the importance of deepening educational partnership and expanding cooperation to serve the educational process in both countries.

Governor of Sweida Mustafa al-Bakour announced the approval and disbursement of financial entitlements for employees working in the directorates and government entities affiliated with the province.
In a statement on his Telegram account, al-Bakour said that, “based on requests received from 29 directorates and government bodies, and in accordance with administrative and legal procedures as well as the applicable financial regulations, the financial entitlements of employees in these institutions have been approved and disbursed following the completion of all necessary formalities.”

Israeli forces breached Syria’s border early Tuesday, advancing a short distance into Maariya village in the Yarmouk Basin area, west of Daraa Province, before withdrawing hours later.

A SANA correspondent in Daraa reported that three Israeli armoured vehicles crossed into the village toward the road linking Maariya with Koya village, where they remained deployed for about two hours before pulling back toward the outskirts of Abidin village.

Muwaffaq Mahmoud, head of the Abidin and Maariya Municipal Council, told SANA that Israeli forces’ presence was limited to a “temporary deployment and withdrawal without any friction with residents.”

He added that the movement occurred in farmland surrounding the village, and that the situation returned to normal after the forces withdrew.

Israeli troops had entered Maariya in a similar incursion last Monday, detaining two young men who were grazing livestock and releasing them the following evening.

In continued violation of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, as well as international law and relevant UN resolutions, the Israeli forces’ maintains repeated aggressions against Syrian territory.

Syria condemns these violations and calls on the international community to take urgent measures to stop them, the report said.

Syrian anti-narcotics units seized a significant quantity of drugs in Deir Ezzor province, eastern Syria, following a series of raids on suspected properties, the Interior Ministry said on Wednesday.

According to a statement by the Ministry on its Telegram channel, the operation uncovered various drugs, including 18.5 kilograms of hashish, hidden in food containers and professionally sealed.

Law enforcement also seized a quantity of “H-Poz,” a synthetic drug, along with several narcotic pills. The drugs were reportedly intended for distribution within the city.

The Ministry has reported several major anti-narcotics operations nationwide, resulting in the seizure of large quantities of drugs as part of the Syrian government’s ongoing efforts to combat trafficking.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to combating the drug trade, emphasizing that authorities would continue efforts to track down drug dealers and dismantle trafficking networks to protect public safety and community welfare.