Trump’s shock announcement that he would be lifting economic sanctions on Syria has sparked celebrations in the streets of Damascus. 

What are the consequences for the recovery of a nation rebuilding its state and infrastructure after more than a decade of civil war? And following the announcement in Riyadh after a meeting between Trump and Syria’s new President Ahmed al-Sharaa, what does it mean for Syria’s rebalancing of relations in the Middle East and across the globe?

Emma Beals discusses a dramatic week and its potential ramifications with Syrian economist Karam Shaar, and Dareen Khalifa, senior adviser at the International Crisis Group. 

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Written and presented by Emma Beals. Produced by Robin Leeburn. Original theme music by Paul Hartnoll – https://www.orbitalofficial.com. Executive Producer Martin Bojtos. Managing Editor Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. This Is Not A Drill is a Podmasters production.

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