Syria's national currency continues to be printed by a Russian company under an existing contract, the Central Bank of Syria confirmed. The bank also clarified that no decision has been made yet regarding changes to the design of the Syrian pound banknotes.
According to a statement cited by the Al Watan newspaper, "As part of the Central Bank’s plans to meet market demand for national currency, the printing of banknotes is being carried out by a Russian company under a previously signed contract, in accordance with approved standards and official agreements."
The statement also addressed recent rumors: "With regard to reports about changing the national currency or introducing a new issue, we confirm that this matter is still under review by the Central Bank of Syria. It requires careful evaluation of both economic and technical factors."
Earlier this week, Reuters reported, citing sources, that Syria was planning to print new banknotes — excluding the image of former President Bashar al-Assad — in the UAE and Germany instead of Russia.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: anjči/Creative Commons 2.0
Based on materials from TASS