Syria's Tech Sector Poised for a New Era as SYNC Welcomes U.S. Move to Rescind State Sponsor of Terrorism Designation

Damascus | July 9, 2026

SYNC welcomes the United States' announcement that it has formally notified Congress of its intent to rescind Syria's designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism. Once finalized following the required 45-day congressional review, the decision could mark a major turning point for Syria's technology sector by removing longstanding barriers to global digital infrastructure and technology services.

For decades, Syrian software engineers, startups, and technology companies have faced limited access to cloud infrastructure, AI tools, developer platforms, payment systems, enterprise software, cybersecurity solutions, and international collaboration tools. These restrictions created significant operational challenges and constrained growth despite the strong capabilities of Syrian technology professionals.

As these barriers begin to ease, Syria's technology sector is well positioned to become a key driver of economic recovery through innovation, entrepreneurship, and high-value job creation.

Once finalized, the decision is expected to support:

• Greater access to global software, cloud, and AI platforms
• Improved productivity for technology companies
• Stronger collaboration between Syrian professionals and international employers
• Increased foreign investment in Syria's digital economy
• Faster startup growth and expanded remote work opportunities
• Greater engagement of the Syrian diaspora in rebuilding the technology ecosystem

"For years, Syrian talent has proven that capability was never the issue," said Bassel Ojjeh, Chairman of SYNC. "The real challenge has been access to the global technology ecosystem. As these barriers begin to come down, we can focus on building products, growing companies, creating jobs, and positioning Syria as a competitive player in the global digital economy."

Over the past year, SYNC has worked with more than 80 employers, enabled over 500 technology jobs, and continues advancing its mission of creating 25,000 technology jobs for Syrians by 2030.

SYNC believes this milestone will accelerate investment, strengthen entrepreneurship, expand employment opportunities, and foster deeper collaboration between Syrian talent, international partners, and the Syrian diaspora.

About SYNC:

A US-based nonprofit that connects Syrian tech workers worldwide with Silicon Valley experts. It aims to build Syria's tech ecosystem, helping to create 25,000 jobs by 2030. The group runs large tech conferences, showcases startups, and helps developers get hired globally