US Urges Syria to Shift from Chinese Telecom Gear

The United States has pressed Syria to move away from Chinese telecommunications technology, citing national security concerns. Washington's message came during a meeting in San Francisco between a U.S. State Department delegation and Syrian Communications Minister Abdulsalam Haykal on Tuesday.

The U.S. urged Syria to use American suppliers or allied suppliers instead of Chinese vendors, particularly Huawei, which powers Syria’s mobile networks.

The U.S. argues that Chinese technology presents security risks due to Chinese laws that could compel companies to grant authorities access to sensitive data. China has denied such allegations. The U.S. official emphasized that countries should prioritize national security and privacy over cheaper alternatives.

• US urges Syria to shift from Chinese telecom gear amid security concerns
• Washington presses Syria to replace Huawei with American or allied suppliers
• Syria seeks telecom infrastructure rebuilding amid US push for diversification

Syria has relied on Chinese systems due to U.S. sanctions, which have limited access to Western suppliers. Huawei equipment makes up over half of the infrastructure for Syria’s main telecom operators, Syriatel and MTN.

Syrian officials acknowledged the need to diversify technology suppliers but said rebuilding the country’s telecom infrastructure is critical. U.S. export controls and Western companies' over-compliance with sanctions have hindered access to alternatives. Damascus remains open to cooperation with U.S. firms if trade restrictions are lifted.

The U.S. push for diversification comes as Syria works to rebuild its telecom networks after years of conflict and international isolation. Saudi Arabia’s STC has pledged $800 million to strengthen Syria’s infrastructure and expand regional fiber-optic links.

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This diplomatic push is part of a broader effort to influence Syria’s foreign relations, particularly since President Ahmed al-Sharaa succeeded Bashar al-Assad in 2024. Washington seeks to shape Syria’s technological and strategic choices in the years ahead.