The head of the Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport, Omar Al-Hosari, confirmed that recent agreements and memoranda of understanding signed Tuesday, July 7th, with France in Damascus aim to enhance cooperation between the two countries and foster the development of the Syrian air industry in civil aviation, air navigation, and air cargo.
In a statement to SANA, Al-Hosari announced that the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding with the French Ministry of Transport for the exchange of expertise and technical support, facilitating Syria’s reintegration into the global aviation system, particularly the European system.
He noted that the memorandum was the result of multiple meetings between the Authority and the French Ministry of Transport, leading to a final version that facilitates advanced cooperation between the two parties.
Besides, Al-Hosri announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the French company Thales, aimed at enhancing air navigation services in Syria. The agreement includes training and technical support for modernising the air navigation sector and improving air traffic management efficiency.
Additionally, the Syrian Aviation Holding Company entered into an MoU with a prominent French air cargo firm, focusing on the development of the air cargo sector. The partnership will involve utilising cargo aircraft to bolster the capabilities and operational role of air cargo in Syria in the near future.
Agreements & Memorandums of Understanding
The General Authority of Civil Aviation affirmed that the French Ministry of Transport and the Authority are working together to develop technical and regulatory frameworks, strengthen institutional cooperation, exchange expertise, and improve coordination in accordance with international standards and best practices in the civil aviation industry.
Moreover, the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) signed a memorandum with the French company Thales to upgrade air traffic management, communications, navigation, and air traffic control (CNS/ATM) systems. This initiative aims to modernise Syria’s civil aviation infrastructure, enhance safety and operational efficiency, and improve air navigation system readiness with the latest global technologies.
Likewise, the Syrian Aviation Holding Company has entered into a strategic partnership with CMA CGM Air Cargo Group to enhance the air cargo sector in Syria. This collaboration aims to expand the air cargo fleet, share technical expertise, and improve logistics services based on global best practices. CMA CGM Air Cargo Group is a leading player in maritime transport and logistics.
This partnership aims to enhance the Syrian Aviation Holding Company’s air cargo capabilities, operational capacity, and global trade connections, thereby boosting exports, imports, and economic growth while reinforcing Syria’s regional role in air transport. Captain Anwar Akkad, CEO of the Syrian Aviation Holding Company, represented the Syrian side during the signing.
A New Stage of Syrian-French Collaboration
These agreements signify a new phase in French-Syrian cooperation in civil aviation, reflecting mutual trust and a commitment to develop long-term strategic partnerships focused on infrastructure investment, technology localisation, knowledge transfer, and strengthening national capabilities.
Notably, the Authority remains committed to implementing its strategic vision for the civil aviation sector in Syria, aiming to meet high international standards. This commitment will enhance safety, security, and efficiency in air transport, improve the competitiveness of Syrian airports, and restore Syria’s status as a regional logistics hub, supporting economic recovery and sustainable development.
Furthermore, Syria and France signed several agreements on July 7th in Damascus, involving a declaration of intent and memoranda of understanding. The meeting, attended by Presidents Ahmed al-Sharaa and Emmanuel Macron, focused on strengthening economic partnerships between the two nations.
Syria & France Sign a Landmark Collaboration Pact
Syria and France signed a comprehensive cooperation framework declaration on July 7th, with representatives Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot attending with Presidents Ahmed al-Sharaa and Emmanuel Macron to enhance bilateral relations across various fields.
This followed a roundtable meeting between Syrian and French officials at the People’s Palace in Damascus, co-chaired by Sharaa and Macron, where several agreements and memoranda of understanding related to investment sectors crucial for Syria’s reconstruction were announced.
Remarkably, President Sharaa discussed an integrated system that includes updating the air fleet, airport operations, modernising air navigation, energy exploration, upgrading electricity and water networks, developing university hospitals, enhancing food industries, advancing digital infrastructure, and improving the civil registry.
He highlighted Syria’s industrial cities as potential sites for launching French factories, emphasising the country’s commitment to a modern investment environment regulated by laws and institutions. He noted that the strategic partnership with France is based on mutual interests rather than mere slogans.
Meanwhile, President Macron affirmed France’s commitment to supporting Syria’s reconstruction, highlighting its role as an investment partner in critical areas like energy and banking, and noted the collaboration with Gulf countries through joint economic committees.
Overall, President Al-Sharaa welcomed French President Macron at the People’s Palace for an official visit to Syria, marking the first visit by a French president since 2009. The visit aims to advance Syrian-French relations based on mutual respect and equal partnership.