Syria's road ahead: How transport infrastructure could be the key to stability

Syria's recent transition following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad has generated cautious optimism for peace and democracy, though challenges remain regarding social and political unity in the divided nation. The European Union, Turkey, and Gulf states are actively engaging with the new leadership, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, to promote a peaceful transition and prevent renewed conflict. UN officials emphasize that current decisions will significantly influence Syria's future. Infrastructure investment is critical for stabilizing Syria after years of civil war, with Turkey poised to play a substantial role due to its historical construction successes in similar contexts. The country urgently needs modern railways, roads, and airports to ensure proper distribution of resources and maintain national cohesion. Turkey's goals include neutralizing threats from Kurdish factions and enhancing its political influence as a primary EU partner. Turkey's transport initiatives, like the rehabilitation of historical railroads and modern transport hubs, are deemed vital for regional integration. Experts argue that successful infrastructure development in Syria could lay the groundwork for broader economic connectivity, linking the Gulf region to the Mediterranean. However, Turkey's economic struggles pose a significant barrier to realizing these ambitions, necessitating support from wealthy Gulf nations. Overall, the focus remains on sustainable aid distribution and strengthening administrative structures crucial for reconstruction. Learning from past international interventions, stakeholders must ensure a supportive environment for coexistence and reconciliation during this transformative period.