Syria's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology completed the country's inaugural voice call using Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE) technology on 21 April 2026, marking a milestone in the nation's effort to modernize its mobile network infrastructure.
Communications Minister Abdulsalam Haykal conducted the live VoLTE trial and acknowledged that aging infrastructure remains the sector's primary challenge. He noted that local engineers and technical teams have sustained basic service capabilities under difficult circumstances, enabling incremental progress toward newer technologies, according to Levant24.
Investment and Infrastructure Expansion
The ministry is finalizing arrangements for a joint venture with Saudi Telecom Company to develop the SilkLink initiative, according to Levant24. Officials are also completing operational frameworks for Barq Net, a network designed to expand fiber-optic connectivity to residential and commercial properties through private sector investment. Multiple companies are currently evaluating participation terms for establishing a new mobile operator to replace an existing provider.
Bashir Arqsoosi, a representative of MTN Syria, described VoLTE as a step toward phasing out older network technologies and adopting more efficient systems, noting the upgrade could enhance service reliability and consumer confidence while leveraging local expertise in network development.
Huawei representative Jack Ma stated the company maintains confidence in the Syrian market and plans to expand collaborative efforts. He emphasized that robust information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure supports broader economic and social recovery.
What VoLTE Enables
VoLTE technology delivers faster call connections, higher audio clarity, and simultaneous data usage during calls compared to older voice standards. Globally, VoLTE serves as a foundational component of modern mobile networks and supports the transition toward 5G systems. Syria's adoption aligns with international telecommunications development trends while drawing investment from regional and international technology partners.
Sources: Levant24.