Damascus, Nov. 30 (SANA) The Syrian-British Business Council was launched Sunday in Damascus, attended by ministers, ambassadors, and businessmen from various sectors in both countries. The event, held at the Royal Semiramis Hotel, was sponsored by the Ministry of Economy and Industry.
The council aims to establish mutually beneficial partnerships between companies, universities, and organizations across Syria and the United Kingdom, contributing to Syria’s development by enhancing its business and educational environment.
Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal al-Shaar affirmed the importance of holding the council in Damascus and the ministry’s commitment to ensuring its success from day one. He noted that the meeting marks a significant step, reflecting Syria’s return to the international community and the recovery of its economic standing, highlighting that such councils serve as platforms to strengthen public-private cooperation and encourage investment opportunities.
Finance Minister Mohammed Yisr Barnieh described the council as a platform to expand job opportunities and strengthen economic and investment ties between Syria and the UK, given the promising investment prospects in Syria.
For his part, minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdul Salam Haykal stressed the council’s role in reinforcing Syria’s reintegration into the international community and restoring its commercial identity. He highlighted the vital role of Syrian companies in building economic alliances and transferring expertise across sectors, contributing to national economic development and opening new avenues of cooperation with the UK.
John Wilks, advisor to the Syrian-British Business Council, told SANA that the council is crucial for strengthening economic relations between Syria and Britain after years of decline. He explained that the council seeks to support the private sector, encourage investment, and foster cooperation between Syrian and British entrepreneurs.
Wilks revealed plans for an upcoming trade conference in Damascus to host business leaders and launch joint projects, stressing the importance of moving from words to action to advance Syria’s economy.
Mundher Nuzha, head of the council’s executive committee, affirmed that the council aims to strengthen economic relations between Syria and Britain and attract investments. He added that its establishment resulted from visits by British companies to Syria and their meetings with officials.
Nuzha explained that launching the council in Syria enhances public-private cooperation in both countries, supports business growth, and creates joint investment opportunities that benefit Syria’s economy while strengthening the council’s international ties.
It is noteworthy that Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani took part earlier this month, on 13 November, in the launch of the Syrian-British Business Council in London.
MHD Ibrahim
