Gas, power, and water: Syria–Jordan pact targets shared resources

Syria and Jordan took a major step toward deepening bilateral cooperation on Tuesday with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to formally establish and activate the Higher Coordination Council, a strategic body aimed at advancing joint interests in energy, water, and regional development.

The MoU was signed in Damascus by Syrian Foreign and Expatriates Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi. The agreement follows up on commitments made during al-Safadi’s visit to the Syrian capital on April 17, 2025.

Both countries agreed on an operational roadmap designed to deliver short- and long-term results. A key item on the agenda is the review and potential amendment of the 1987 Yarmouk River Water Investment Agreement, with the goal of ensuring equitable access to water resources for both nations.

The talks also covered a range of energy initiatives, including:

• Supplying natural gas to Syria via Jordan,
• Establishing electricity interconnection and supply projects,
• Sharing Jordan’s renewable energy expertise, and
• Introducing Jordan’s best practices in licensing electricity distribution companies.

To maintain momentum, the two sides agreed to hold a ministerial-level meeting in July, followed by a series of technical working group sessions to assess progress and develop further joint projects.

This renewed engagement between Syria and Jordan reflects a mutual commitment to stability, resource cooperation, and regional integration, as both countries seek to build more resilient infrastructure and sustainable partnerships.