Damascus, January 18, 2024 – Syrian users can now access Google Play Store services without the need for a Virtual Private Network (VPN), following an declaration by the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdul Salam Haykal. This marks a notable step towards restoring full access to Google’s suite of platforms within Syria.
According to the minister’s statement, a phased rollout will see most of Google’s platforms become available across the country in the coming weeks. This reactivation isn’t immediate, requiring a series of legal and operational approvals for each service, followed by necessary technical adjustments and rigorous quality testing before official launch.
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology is actively working to ensure a secure and orderly return of global digital services to Syria. This initiative aims to enhance the country’s technological infrastructure and provide greater support for both users and the burgeoning digital sector.
This growth follows Google’s decision last year to remove Syria from the sanctions list maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). This removal allows for the resumption of advertising services, a capability that had been restricted as 2004, wiht significant expansions to those restrictions occurring in 2011.
The return of Google services is expected to have a positive impact on Syria’s digital economy and provide citizens with greater access to information and online resources.
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