Damascus, Jan. 2 (SANA) Syria’s newly issued currency combines national symbolism with modern visual design. According to officials, its motifs tell the story of land and people, drawing inspiration from the country’s historic agricultural diversity. The symbols were chosen not only for aesthetic value but also for colours reflecting the nature of each crop.
The Symbols Used
The new banknotes feature a range of agricultural motifs, including plants and animals native to Syria. Agricultural experts told SANA that the choice reflects growing awareness of farming’s role in strengthening food security and supporting the national economy.
Wheat: A Strategic Crop
The depiction of wheat ears on Syria’s largest banknote carries deep national and social meaning, said agricultural engineer Nibal Khazal. Wheat is a strategic crop central to both Syrian and global food security, and it is a staple that unites Syrians.
Cotton: Syria’s Textile industry
Cotton’s inclusion highlights its importance as an industrial crop that bolsters the economy, increases production value, and provides jobs for farmers and workers nationwide, Khazal noted.
Syrian cotton is renowned for its high quality, serving as the primary raw material for textiles and clothing. It is used extensively in local spinning and weaving factories, giving it a vital role in Syria’s textile industry and demand in both domestic and international markets.
Damascene Rose and Mulberry: A Cultural Dimension
The Damascene rose and Syrian mulberry add cultural and civilizational depth. Khazal said the rose has become both a cultural and economic crop, listed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, and is now part of Syria’s national identity.
Syrian mulberry is considered among the finest globally for taste and yield, and remains an important crop, particularly in rural Damascus and Quneitra.
Olive: Symbol of Peace
The olive tree and its branches symbolize peace, life, and attachment to the land. Agricultural expert Yasser Daboul said olives embody memory, labour, and continuity across generations, while providing livelihoods for many families and contributing significantly to the economy.
Citrus: A National Product
Citrus fruits are another key economic crop for thousands of Syrian families, Daboul said. They symbolize national production and resilience, supporting local industries and reflecting farmers’ determination to preserve cultivation despite climate challenges. Citrus is particularly significant in Syria’s coastal regions.
Livestock Symbols
The design also features animals such as butterflies, gazelles, Arabian horses, swallows, and sparrows. Agricultural expert Salim al-Buqai said these highlight the value of Syria’s livestock and wildlife, their role in the local economy, and the need to sustain biodiversity.
Butterflies symbolize the growth of pastures and crops, while gazelles contribute to vegetation diversity and ecological health in regions such as al-Jazira and Palmyra’s desert.
Swallows help control harmful insects, while sparrows spread seeds, both aiding agricultural productivities.
The Arabian horse carries economic and cultural significance, especially in Aleppo, Hama, and Homs, known for equestrian traditions. It also symbolizes Arab heritage and authenticity.
Minister of Agriculture: Symbols Tied to Economy, Stability and Land
The chosen symbols reflect the richness and quality of Syrian agriculture, underscoring its role as a cornerstone of the economy. By embedding agricultural wealth into the country’s monetary instruments, the design conveys both economic meaning and symbolism of stability and deep connection to the land.
Agriculture Minister Amjad Badr told SANA that selecting specific crops for the new currency carries significant weight, given their importance to Syrians and their status as strategic staples.
Badr also stressed the importance of the new design in avoiding portraits or personal symbols. Instead, it features motifs that highlight equality among Syrians. He said the current phase is one of work and national service, marked by pragmatism, realism and humility in serving the country.
MHD
