ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – Syrian Transport Minister Yarob Badr said on Tuesday that Syria’s railway network is facing a severe funding shortage, hindering efforts to rehabilitate and reconnect critical parts of the national infrastructure, which is essential to reconnect the country’s provinces and cities.
“We are currently suffering from limited financial capabilities,” Badr he told Rudaw. “We hope to find a solution through support from sisterly and friendly countries. In the long term, we are open to investment through partnerships with experienced international rail companies.”
Badr further acknowledged the transport ministry’s limited knowledge about the condition of the railway network in northeastern Syria (Rojava), particularly in areas under the control of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES).
Addressing the future of the M4 highway – a vital transportation corridor linking Rojava with other provinces – Badr noted that the route remains closed but that “we are striving to reopen all routes between Syrian provinces.” He further highlighted the need for inter-agency cooperation to overcome logistical and political hurdles.
Badr stressed that "creating the right conditions" is essential for assessing and revitalizing infrastructure, with the ultimate goal of restoring national connectivity and mobility across Syria.