Maldives welcomes US removal of Syria from terrorism sponsor list

The Maldivian government has welcomed the decision by the United States of America to remove the Syria from its ‘List of State Sponsors of Terrorism’.

The Maldivian government warmly congratulated Syria on the significant development and extended its best wishes to the Syrian people for continued peace, stability and prosperity. The government expressed hope that the decision would facilitate Syria’s recovery and reconstruction efforts while contributing to improved living conditions and livelihoods for its people.

The government also reaffirmed Maldives’ support for Syria’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and for a peaceful, inclusive process led and owned by Syrians that reflects and fulfils the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.

Syria had remained on the list since 1979, after Washington accused the government of then-President Hafez al-Assad of providing support to armed groups.

The designation imposes restrictions on US foreign assistance, defense exports and sales, certain dual-use goods that can serve both civilian and military purposes, and financial transactions. The designation also continued to pose a significant obstacle for banks and investors, even after Washington dismantled its broader sanctions regime against Syria.