Syria is receiving two power-generating ships from Turkey and Qatar to enhance electricity supply, following U.S. sanctions relief after the ousting of President Assad. The ships are projected to contribute 800 megawatts of power, addressing significant outages caused by extensive war damage. Both countries are also working to rebuild diplomatic relations with the transitional government in Damascus as the nation faces reconstruction challenges.
On Tuesday, Syria’s electricity chief announced that two power-generating ships are being dispatched from Turkey and Qatar to bolster the nation’s electricity supply. This initiative follows the recent easing of U.S. sanctions after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. The ongoing civil war has severely damaged Syria’s infrastructure, resulting in power outages that can exceed 20 hours daily. These ships are expected to generate 800 megawatts of electricity, which corresponds to approximately half of Syria’s current production capacity.
Khaled Abu Dayy, the head of the national electricity company, confirmed to the state news agency SANA that work is underway to establish power lines to transport electricity from the vessels, although he did not disclose their docking locations. The provision of electrical support comes as both Turkey and Qatar have reopened their embassies in Damascus, reflecting a shift in diplomatic relations following Assad’s flight to Moscow.
Turkey’s energy ministry delegation visited Damascus in late December, signaling Turkey’s continued engagement with rebel forces that played a significant role in the uprising against Assad. Additionally, Turkey hosts nearly three million Syrian refugees, and with Assad’s recent removal, there is optimism that many displaced individuals may return to Syria.
While the transitional government in Damascus is seeking the lifting of international sanctions, the global community remains cautious, awaiting clarity on how the new authorities will govern. The seventeen-year conflict has resulted in the deaths of over half a million people and has devastated Syria’s economy, with energy sector losses alone estimated at around $100 billion since 2011.
The recent announcement regarding the dispatch of power-generating ships from Turkey and Qatar to Syria comes against the backdrop of a prolonged civil conflict that has severely crippled the nation’s infrastructure. Initiated in 2011, the civil war has led to catastrophic loss of life, with estimates exceeding half a million fatalities, and has left daily life in tumult, particularly concerning access to basic utilities like electricity. The conflict has drawn in international powers and emphasized significant geopolitical dynamics in the region. With the fall of Assad and shifting global attitudes prompted by recent developments, this initiative represents a potential turning point in Syria’s recovery efforts. Turkey and Qatar’s engagement signals a restored interest in re-establishing functional relations with Syria as the nation attempts to rebuild its war-torn infrastructure.
In summary, the initiative to send power ships from Turkey and Qatar to Syria highlights critical efforts to restore electrical supply and stabilize the region following significant political upheaval. This move occurs alongside a broader effort to reevaluate sanctions in the wake of Assad’s departure, reflecting changing dynamics in Syrian governance and international relations. As the transitional government strives for reconstruction amid ongoing challenges, the collaboration of neighboring nations plays a vital role in Syria’s pathway towards stabilization and recovery.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
