Syrian Arab Republic
Tajikistan again in spotlight as “terrorism hub” after New York arrest
Accused allegedly sent tens of thousands of dollars Islamic State extremists overseas and trained with assault rifles at shooting ranges in US.
PKK declares immediate ceasefire with Turkey
President Erdogan says there is an “historic opportunity” to end the 40-year-insurgency. Talks could unravel, but process could also help bring stability to Syria.
ISTANBUL BLOG: PKK leader’s call to disarm not first of its kind. Nor is it serious
Not-so-negligible note circulated by Abdullah Ocalan’s messengers missed by international media.
PKK Kurdish separatist leader Ocalan issues historic call to lay down arms, end 40-year bloody conflict with Turkey
Doubts all factions will heed message emerge. Peace could advance Ankara’s ambition to play main role in reconstruction of post-war Syria.
Lebanon's rail revival paves the way for economic growth and unity
Lebanon is seeking to revive its dormant railway network, aiming to reconnect with neighbouring Syria and Iraq while positioning itself as a potential link in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Syria’s new President al-Sharaa warmly welcomed by Jordanian King Abdullah II
Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa arrived in Jordan for high-level talks with King Abdullah II.
EU suspends economic sanctions imposed on Syria
The European Council decided on February 24 during its meeting in Brussels, to suspend several sanctions and restrictive measures previously imposed on Syria under the former regime.
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Israeli Prime Minister calls for disarmament in southern Syria
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the disarmament of Daraa, Suwayda, and Quneitra in southern Syria saying the new Syrian administration should not enter these provinces.
UN warns Syria faces 50-year economic recovery
Syria needs at least 10 years to recover its pre-war economic levels even with strong growth, while current slow growth rates of 1.3% annually could extend recovery beyond 50 years.
PANNIER: Prince Karim Aga Khan IV obituary
Spiritual leader who mingled with heads of state and royalty leaves behind tremendous amount of grassroots work that will benefit Ismaili Muslim communities for generations to come.
France awards top military honour to Iraqi commander
France awarded its highest military honour to a senior Iraqi commander for his role in combating terrorism, Iraq's Joint Operations Command announced in Baghdad.
New Aga Khan takes helm of Ismaili Shi'ite Muslims
Prince Rahim al-Hussaini has been named the new Aga Khan, becoming spiritual leader of 15mn Ismaili Muslims following the death of his father in Lisbon aged 88.
The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismaili, passes away at 88
Billionaire philanthropist invested his fortune in lifting up communities around the world, particularly the Pamiri peoples of Tajikistan.
Turkey could set up airbases in Syria’s desert, brief Damascus sources
Speculation over Ankara’s intentions mounts as interim Syrian president al-Sharaa meets Turkish leader Erdogan.
COMMENT: Everyone wants a piece of the post-war Syria pie
Syria’s rapid political shift and bold economic reforms are drawing global investors and diplomats to Damascus. Can the new leadership turn post-conflict ambition into lasting stability?
Saudi crown prince receives Syrian President al-Sharaa in Riyadh
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited Saudi Arabia for the first time as Riyadh seeks to capitalise on the collapse of the al-Assad regime in December.
Syria's interim president al-Sharaa delivers first national address outlining plans
Syria's Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa delivered his first national address on January 30, outlining his vision for the country's political transition following significant changes in December.
Qatari Emir discusses developments with Syrian interim President
Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani visited Damascus on January 30 for groundbreaking discussions with Syria's interim leadership, becoming the first head of state to visit the country since President Bashar al-Assad was removed from power.
Russian military withdraws from Syria amid tensions with Damascus regime
Russian forces have begun withdrawing from Syria, with two cargo vessels, the Sparta II and Sparta, departing from the port of Tartus on January 30.
Syria outlines free market vision at Damascus economic forum
Syria's Minister of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection outlined the country's transition towards a competitive free market economy during an economic forum held at the Damascus Chamber of Commerce on January 29.