Damascus, Feb. 23 (SANA) – The Canadian Embassy in Damascus and the Syrian Canadian Business Council hosted a Ramadan iftar on Monday, marking Canada’s first public diplomatic event in Syria since Ottawa began restoring relations, officials said.
Canadian Ambassador Gregory Galligan said the gathering comes as Canada takes “measured steps” toward re‑engagement, noting that Ottawa has remained a major provider of humanitarian assistance to Syrians. He highlighted last week’s decision to lift Canada’s broad economic sanctions on Syria, opening the door to trade, investment and private‑sector partnerships while maintaining targeted measures related to human‑rights accountability.
Galligan said responsible economic engagement could support stability and job creation, adding that small and medium‑sized enterprises, investors and diaspora networks have a role in Syria’s recovery.
Syrian Finance Minister Mohammed Yisr Barnieh welcomed Canada’s decision to end sanctions, saying it creates new opportunities for economic cooperation and growth. He stressed the importance of utilizing Canadian expertise and technologies to support Syria in the recovery phase.
Central Bank Governor Abdulkader Husrieh also called the decision a step toward rebuilding financial ties and encouraged Canadian companies to explore investment prospects, highlighting the importance of strengthening bilateral relations with Canada on all levels.
Leaders of the Syrian‑Canadian Business Association said the group aims to expand commercial, educational and cultural cooperation between the two countries and promote joint investment projects. They noted that business delegations have already exchanged visits and that the association seeks to support sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture and higher education.
The association, established in 2006, includes Syrian and Canadian business figures and works to facilitate partnerships and knowledge exchange between the two markets.
