Damascus: Public Works and Transport Minister Fayez Rasamny held a significant meeting with Syrian Transport Minister Yarob Badr in Damascus. This meeting was part of the Lebanese delegation's visit, led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, to engage with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the meeting was also attended by key figures such as Lebanon's Director General of Land and Maritime Transport, Ahmad Tamer, and Syria's Director General of Customs, Khaled al-Barrad. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in land and air transport, border crossings, and logistical collaboration between the two nations to boost trade and transport efficiency.

In terms of land transport, both parties explored the transshipment of goods at the border, considering the reinstatement of the 1993 agreement provisions or creating special facilitations for Lebanese goods to streamline trade and reduce logistical burdens. The dialogue emphasized the need to activate existing bilateral agreements in transport and transit, aiming to fortify technical cooperation and expertise exchange, which would facilitate cross-border movement.

The discussions extended to civil aviation, where coordination with Syria was considered for the operation of President Ren© Moawad Airport in Qlayaat. This project is crucial for bolstering Lebanon's air transport infrastructure. Additionally, reopening the direct Beirut-Damascus air route was deliberated, as it previously reduced travel time and improved passenger and flight efficiency.

On border crossings, the focus was on relocating the Masnaa border post closer to the Syrian boundary to alleviate congestion and improve logistics. Moreover, the reopening of the Abboudiyeh crossing was discussed, following the construction of a temporary bridge by the Lebanese Army and the Public Works and Transport Ministry. Syria is currently building a parallel bridge, expected to be completed by next July.

Both ministers concluded the meeting by agreeing to continue discussions through joint technical committees, aiming to activate bilateral agreements and enhance cooperation in the transport sectors.