This country changed its currency on New Year's Day; this picture will replace the President's on the note.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Syria has begun issuing a new currency to replace notes dating back to the Assad regime, in what is being described as a symbolic and practical shift in the country's economy. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Central Bank Governor Abdulkader Husrieh unveiled the new notes at a ceremony in Damascus. They will enter circulation on January 1, 2026. This is part of a major monetary reform carried out following the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad in 2024.

Symbols of nature like roses, wheat and oranges on the new notes

President Sharaa described the new banknote designs as a departure from the past, saying they reflect a new national identity. These notes now feature symbols associated with agriculture and nature, such as roses, wheat, olives, oranges, and mulberries, replacing the images of the Assad family that appeared on previous notes.

What other changes were made?

One major change involves the currency being redenominated, removing two zeros – meaning 100 old Syrian pounds will now equal one new pound. The Central Bank has set a 90-day transition period during which both old and new notes can be used, which can be extended if necessary.

While removing zeros and changing the design will simplify transactions, officials acknowledged that these changes in themselves will not improve the economy. Shara stressed that long-term recovery depends on increasing production, reducing unemployment, and strengthening the banking sector.

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