U.S. Move Could Revive Syrian Science, Official Claims

The head of a Syrian government agency says a recent U.S. congressional vote could restart the country's scientific sector. Shadi al-Azmeh, Chairman of Syria's Distinction and Creativity Agency, stated the action could ease major restrictions. He spoke on Saturday in Damascus. The U.S. House of Representatives voted to repeal the Caesar Act. This American law imposes severe economic sanctions on Syria. Al-Azmeh argued that removing these sanctions would open new horizons for research. It would also support efforts for innovation and excellence, he said. The Caesar Act was designed to pressure the Syrian government. Its repeal is not yet certain, as it requires further U.S. legislative approval.