The World Bank: Payments from Saudi Arabia and Qatar were used to settle Syria's arrears.

The World Bank announced today, Friday, that it has settled Syria's debt of $15.5 million, qualifying it for new programs and grants worth millions of dollars for reconstruction. According to Reuters, the bank stated in a press release that payments from Saudi Arabia and Qatar were used to settle Syria's arrears, making it eligible for new programs and grants to support reconstruction and budget. The World Bank stated that as of May 12, Syria had no outstanding balances with the International Development Association, the bank's fund to assist the poorest countries. On April 27, Saudi Arabia and Qatar announced that they would settle Syria's arrears with the International Monetary Fund. In a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the time, Syria expressed its deep gratitude to the two countries for their generous fraternal initiative, confirming that this step reflects a shared commitment to supporting the Syrian people and alleviating their economic burdens.