Syrian President Ahmed al Sharaa has hailed Syria's removal from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism, congratulating the Syrian people and thanking US President Donald Trump and countries that supported Damascus.
"I congratulate the Syrian people on the official removal of Syria's name from the list of state sponsors of terrorism," al Sharaa said on Monday.
"I thank the US president and all brothers and friends who stood with Syria and the Syrian people," he added.
Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani also welcomed the decision as the "result of the transformation brought about by the Syrian people", saying it reflects the new Syrian state's commitment to international peace and security.
"We congratulate the Syrian people on this historic milestone," Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani said on X, referring to the revocation of the designation after 47 years.
Al-Shaibani said the listing was tied to the former regime ousted in late 2024 and "was never the choice of the Syrian people, nor was it befitting of Syria and its history."
Under President Ahmad al Sharaa's guidance, Syria will continue efforts to overcome international isolation and foster an environment based on transparency and mutual respect, al-Shaibani added.
US envoy praises milestone
US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack described the removal as a "decisive step" in Syria's transition from isolation to partnership.
Barrack called the decision "another historic milestone," noting that the designation had served as "another wall separating the Syrian people from the investment, enterprise, and opportunity necessary to rebuild their nation."
"With the designation removed, capital can replace conflict, enterprise can replace isolation, and commerce can continue to triumph over chaos," Barrack said, describing the step as a foundation stone for a relationship built on shared security and prosperity.
Hours earlier, the US State Department announced it had formally removed Syria from the state sponsors of terrorism list and revoked the Specially Designated Global Terrorist designation for the al-Nusrah Front, also known as Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), with the Treasury Department endorsing the move.
Syria had remained on the list since 1979.
Damascus views the decision as paving the way for increased trade, investment, and global engagement, though certain US restrictions remain subject to separate legal frameworks.
