Türkiye-Syria-Gulf transit corridor gains strategic weight as Hormuz stays shut

Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat on Tuesday emphasized the growing strategic importance of the Türkiye-Syria-Jordan-Saudi Arabia transit corridor for regional commerce, stating that the route has become a critical lifeline for Gulf trade since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to reporters in the southeastern province of Gaziantep following a bilateral meeting with Syrian Economy and Industry Minister Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar, Bolat noted that the corridor has continued to operate successfully since April 15 despite the ongoing conflict. The minister's remarks came on the sidelines of the Anadolu City Economies Summit Gaziantep-Aleppo, where he highlighted that Syria has endured a devastating 14-year period marked by significant loss of life and widespread destruction.

Bolat said a new chapter has begun following what he termed the "Dec. 8 revolution," adding that Türkiye — particularly under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's leadership — has provided robust support to ensure Syria's political and territorial integrity and the establishment of legitimate governance. He stated that Ankara has maintained constant contact with Damascus since December to accelerate economic cooperation and improve trade, investment, and transportation freedoms, noting that substantial progress has already been achieved.

Economic integration advances

Bolat recalled that the two countries held a Joint Economic and Trade Committee meeting in April, which produced significant advances in standards harmonization, technical regulation alignment, customs cooperation, and the liberalization of transit trade. Investor confidence continues to rise as regional stability improves, he said, adding that officials are currently working to open new manufacturing facilities in Syria. He indicated that transit trade to all Gulf countries through Türkiye and Syria has now become possible, with transport volumes between the two nations increasing significantly in line with expanding commercial exchanges.

Banking and infrastructure talks

Among the most pressing agenda items discussed with al-Shaar were the opening of Turkish bank branches in Syria and the reopening of the Islahiye and Nusaybin customs gates, Bolat told reporters. He added that officials remain in contact regarding the signing of a new free trade agreement between the two countries, while joint investments — including preparations for a free zone and a joint industrial zone — are under active discussion.

The Anadolu City Economies Summit is expected to contribute to accelerating economic integration between Gaziantep and Aleppo, Bolat noted. The ministers reviewed ongoing preparations for the joint industrial zone and customs modernization efforts during their bilateral meeting in Gaziantep.