Istanbul, June 29, 2025 – The Europe Today: Türkiye and Syria have signed a new memorandum of understanding on international road transport, marking a significant step toward the resumption of direct overland trade between the two countries, Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu announced.
Speaking to media during the Global Transport Connectivity Forum held in Istanbul, Minister Uraloğlu stated that the agreement revives the 2004 International Road Transport Agreement, re-establishing a legal framework for seamless land transportation.
Under the new arrangement, cargo trucks from both sides will be able to cross borders without transhipment, significantly reducing logistical costs and time. “Cargo transfer at border crossings will end, allowing goods to be transported directly between Türkiye and Syria without the need for transhipment,” Uraloğlu said.
The agreement also includes provisions for initiating transit transport operations, facilitating direct access from Türkiye through Syria to Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and other Gulf countries—offering a vital corridor for regional connectivity and trade.
Additionally, the two countries have agreed to enhance cooperation in passenger and freight transport, including organizing joint training programs and mutual technical assistance.
Minister Uraloğlu emphasized that the revival of direct transport links would not only boost bilateral trade but also contribute to broader regional integration, especially by linking the Middle Corridor with Gulf economies.
This development comes amid significant political changes in Syria, following the fall of the Assad regime in December and the establishment of a transitional government earlier this year. The new administration has expressed a clear intention to rebuild ties with regional and international partners, facilitating renewed cooperation such as this landmark transport agreement with Türkiye.
