Berlin, March 3 (SANA) – Syria is expanding its international economic engagement through participation in major global exhibitions, highlighting efforts to restore its presence in both tourism and industrial markets.
For the first time since liberation, Syria is taking part in the ITB Berlin International Tourism Trade Fair, one of the world’s largest tourism industry events. The Syrian pavilion includes the Ministry of Tourism alongside national tourism, travel and aviation companies.
Held in its 60th edition, ITB Berlin brings together around 6,000 exhibitors from more than 160 countries, offering Syria a platform to showcase its tourism potential and rebuild partnerships with global travel and aviation stakeholders.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Faraj al-Qashqoush said Syria’s participation aims to restore the country’s natural position on the global tourism map and promote what he described as a “new Syria after liberation.” The pavilion also seeks to reassure international visitors about the possibility of visiting tourist destinations across the country.
He noted that tourism indicators are gradually improving, revealing that more than 250,000 European visitors traveled to Syria in 2025, with authorities seeking to expand these numbers through stronger international outreach and participation in global tourism fairs.
The presence of Syrian aviation and travel companies at the exhibition also aims to strengthen international connectivity. Representatives of the Syrian private carrier Fly Cham said participation in the Berlin fair supports plans to expand routes toward Europe and eventually establish direct flights once conditions allow.
Industrial outreach in parallel
Alongside tourism, Syria is also seeking to revive international trade ties through industrial exhibitions. Preparations are underway for the Syrian Industries Exhibition “SYRIX”, scheduled to be held in Amman next May.
The event is expected to serve as the first major external marketing platform for Syrian products since liberation, connecting Syrian manufacturers with importers and distributors and opening opportunities for exports to regional and global markets.
Osama al-Nun, a board member of the Damascus Chamber of Industry, said the exhibition will help Syrian industrial companies re-enter international markets and strengthen trade partnerships, particularly in food processing and manufacturing sectors.
Officials view participation in both events as part of broader efforts to revive key economic sectors, expand exports, and restore Syria’s presence in global tourism and trade networks.
Kh.At / MZN
