Talks at the Ports Authority
The head of Syria's General Authority for Land and Sea Ports and Customs, Qutaiba Badawi, met on 29 June 2026 with a delegation from the Turkish company KUZEY STAR SHIPYARD, led by Tariq Hijazi.
The two sides discussed the steps to implement a project to build an integrated shipyard at the port of Tartus, under a strategic agreement signed between them.
Progress Since Signing
The meeting reviewed the steps completed since the agreement was signed and discussed the executive procedures now under way.
The sides also examined the main challenges and obstacles that could face the project's stages and ways to address them, to speed up work in line with the approved timeline.
A Maritime Investment
Both sides described the project as one of the largest investments in Syria's maritime sector and a strategic step toward localizing shipbuilding to international standards.
They said it would strengthen the capacity of Syrian ports, create wide employment, and transfer modern expertise and technology to national personnel.
Backing From the Authority
Badawi said the authority was keen to offer support and coordination with the relevant bodies to clear obstacles in front of the project, given what he called its large economic and developmental impact.
He linked the venture to strengthening Syria's standing on the map of regional maritime industries.
The January Agreement
The authority signed the strategic investment agreement with the Turkish company on 15 January 2026, with the goal of introducing shipbuilding to Syria.
The agreement covers building an integrated shipyard at Tartus and carrying out the construction, repair and maintenance of vessels to international technical and engineering standards, while the company's delegation affirmed its commitment to pressing ahead with the work.