Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa made a landmark first Visa-facilitated card payment in Damascus, marking a new step in the country's efforts toward rebuilding and reconnecting with the global financial system following years of sanctions.
He carried out the electronic payment at a restaurant in Old Damascus on Wednesday, according to a video published by Syria TV.
Central Bank of Syria Governor Safwat Raslan was also present during the transaction.
Separately, Visa, a global digital payments company, announced Thursday that it had successfully tested a live international card transaction in Syria, describing it as an important step toward enabling international visitors to use their Visa cards in the country.
The company said it worked alongside the Central Bank of Syria and partners Fransabank and Paymera to carry out the transaction.
