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Syria's First International Card Payment in 15+ Years
29 Aug
Summary
- Syria processed its first international card payment in over 15 years.
- The transaction followed reconnection to Mastercard's global network.
- This opens doors for international card acceptance in Syria.
Syria has achieved a significant financial milestone by processing its first international card payment in more than 15 years. This landmark event was facilitated by Mastercard and QNB Group, signaling a crucial step in modernizing the nation's payment ecosystem.
The successful transaction occurred after Syria's payments infrastructure was technically reconnected to Mastercard's extensive global network. QNB Syria processed the initial point-of-sale transaction at an approved local merchant using an internationally issued Mastercard card.
This development lays the groundwork for accepting international payments within Syria. It aims to connect consumers, businesses, and financial institutions to the worldwide digital economy, fostering sustainable economic development for the country.
Central Bank of Syria Governor H.E. Mohammed Safwat Raslan highlighted the achievement as a demonstration of public and private sector collaboration in enabling secure international payment acceptance and facilitating commerce. QNB Group's Chief Business Officer, Yousef Al-Neama, emphasized the increased choice and convenience for customers and support for a secure digital payments ecosystem.
Mastercard's Division President, Adam Jones, reiterated the milestone's importance in advancing a connected, secure, and inclusive payments environment in Syria. Mastercard plans to continue its work with the Central Bank of Syria and other partners to promote digital payment adoption and financial ecosystem modernization.
