Syrian president applauds start to 'long and sustainable road' after lifting of sanctions

Syrian president Ahmad al-Sharaa said that his country has entered a new phase of "reconstruction" after the US lifted sanctions. "After the obstacles were removed and sanctions lifted, we have not yet reached the end. We are at the beginning of a long and sustainable road defined by dignity, revival, reconstruction, development and civilisation," Sharaa said during the opening of the 63rd Damascus International Fair. "We see Syria’s sun rising again, making it a beacon for its economy, a bridge between markets, a corridor for trade and a centre where the interests of East and West converge."