Syria to Join G7 Finance Talks in Paris Ahead of June Summit

Syria is set to participate in a closed-door session with finance ministers and central bank governors from the Group of Seven nations in Paris on Monday, marking a significant step in the country's gradual return to international economic discussions. Syrian Finance Minister Yisr Barnieh is expected to attend the meeting, according to a person familiar with the matter.

The discussions are anticipated to focus on Syria's sustainable economic recovery and its potential reintegration into the global financial system. This engagement comes less than two years after the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad and signals a notable shift in Syria's international status following years of war and diplomatic isolation.

The two-day meeting of G7 finance officials is largely dominated by broader issues, including global economic imbalances and ongoing trade tensions. The fallout from conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine is also a key agenda item. Syria's presence alongside Ukraine in parts of the talks underscores a G7 emphasis on stabilizing countries viewed as central to regional and global security.

Despite the easing or lifting of most international sanctions since the...