Syria to receive Chinese communications equipment in aid

Syria is set to receive communications equipment from China as part of an ongoing aid to the war-torn country, according to a deal signed at an exchange-of-notes ceremony held in Damascus on Wednesday.

The aid aims to improve local network infrastructure, especially in those areas hit hard during the Syrian crisis since 2011.

Under the agreement, which was signed by Chinese Ambassador to Syria Feng Biao and Chairman of Syria's Planning and International Cooperation Authority Fadi Salti Al-Khalil, the aid equipment will be delivered in two batches to the Syrian Communications and Technology Ministry.

Feng said the equipment, as well as other aid items, are an integral part of China's involvement in Syria's reconstruction, "representing the sincere feeling between the two peoples of supporting each other through thick and thin."

"Any economic activity needs communications such as telephone and internet, so the availability of these services in areas liberated by the Syrian army would help displaced people return to their homes," said Syrian Minister of Communications and Technology Iyad Mohammad al-Khatib during the ceremony.

Since the onset of the Syrian crisis in 2011, China has been providing humanitarian aid to the Syrian people including food and medical supplies.