The Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), have formed a landmark joint initiative to support the Syrian Arab Republic.
Together, QFFD and SFD are providing $89 million in funding through UNDP to ensure the continuity of essential public services across Syria over a three-month period.
The joint funding, formalized on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, will provide vital budgetary support enabling the payment of a portion of salaries for government employees responsible for core government functions related to the delivery of essential basic services. By maintaining these critical services, the effort aims to strengthen social protection, foster stability, and promote inclusive socio-economic recovery throughout the country.
The CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development, H.E. Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, stated that the grant provided by the Fund comes as part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s wise leadership efforts to enhance development support for brotherly Syria. Sultan Al-Marshad emphasized that the Fund works hand in hand with its partners to foster growth and advance the development journey in Syria.
Fahad Hamad Al-Sulaiti Director General – QFFD
“This initiative reflects our shared vision to promote stability and build resilience for the brotherly Syrian people. We firmly believe that investing in essential public services is not only an urgent humanitarian necessity, but also a strategic long-term investment in achieving sustainable development, preserving human dignity, and laying the foundations for peace and prosperity.”
Through this support, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar reaffirm their dedication to advancing development and promoting strategic partnerships with the international community. These recovery efforts are designed to contribute to resilient governance, inclusive economic growth, and sustainable development throughout the Syrian Arab Republic.
H.E. Mohamad Yisr Barnieh, Minister of Finance of the Syrian Arab Republic, stated that, “This initiative aligns with the Syrian Government’s efforts to advance financial and economic reforms, reinforcing the foundations of stability and economic and social recovery in the service of the Syrian people, thereby strengthening their resilience. We also thank the United Nations Development Programme for implementing this initiative.”
“We are grateful for the generous contributions of the Qatari and Saudi funds for development, which address the immediate needs of the Syrian population while laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and development. We remain steadfast in responding to the complex needs in Syria. The contributions we receive will ensure the delivery of vital functions that communities rely on such as education and basic services and start to rebuild trust,” said Haoliang Xu, UNDP Acting Administrator.
