Qatar wants to invest in Syrian sectors including energy

It is Qatar’s first visit to Syria in 13 years

Syria’s de facto ruler Ahmed al-Sharaa said after a meeting with Qatar’s state minister for foreign affairs Mohamed Al-Khulaifi that Qatar expressed a readiness to invest in Syria in sectors including energy and ports.

Qatar says it will play a central role in the reconstruction of Syria. Mohamed Al-Khulaifi made the commitment this week in what was the Gulf country’s first official visit to Syria in more than 13 years.

Al-Khulaifi said discussions surrounded «bolstering ties, supporting Syria’s reconstruction, and addressing key issues like operational aid for Damascus International Airport under Qatar’s humanitarian initiatives».

A statement from Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said the commitment was part of «steadfast support» for the people of Syria’s «demands for a dignified life, freedom, and social justice».

Qatar reopened its embassy in Syria earlier this month. It had been closed since July 2011.