President al-Sharaa’s visit to London opens promising investment prospects

London, April 4 (SANA) President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s visit to the United Kingdom, accompanied by a ministerial delegation, marked a significant shift in Syria’s foreign policy after years of isolation due to the policies of the ousted regime.

The visit focused primarily on the country’s economic situation following a war that caused widespread destruction to infrastructure and services, in addition to administrative inefficiencies that deepened economic challenges.

“The President reassured British investors and business leaders about Syria’s transition from a socialist economy to a market economy open to all. Syria is not seeking aid, but partnerships.” Chairman of the Syrian-British Business Council, Monther Nezhah, told SANA.

Regarding new laws and economic reforms, Nezhah explained that these measures are among the most modern and robust investment laws globally, encouraging investors to view Syria as a “greenfield” opportunity—an economic term indicating abundant opportunities and strong guarantees.

Nezhah noted that the outcomes of President al-Sharaa’s visit were reflected in the immediate visit of UK-based Syrian businessman Wafic Saïd to Damascus the following day to begin establishing a major international-standard hotel. He said Saïd’s meeting with the president gave him momentum to launch this significant economic and tourism investment.

Commenting on the impressions of Syrian and British investors who attended a roundtable meeting, Nezhah said many expressed surprise at Syria’s advanced approach to attracting investment.

He added that they were impressed by President al-Sharaa’s familiarity with the companies present and their roles, reflecting serious engagement with the investment environment. Foreign investors, in particular, showed strong interest in understanding Syria’s economic landscape and opportunities.

The Chairman of the Syrian-British Business Council expressed hope for major investments and projects in the near future, in partnership with the Council, which works to facilitate procedures for Syrian and British investors.

President al-Sharaa visited London last Tuesday, where he met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street, as well as members of the British Parliament.

He also held meetings with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and the UK Chief of the General Staff, and concluded his official engagements with a visit to Buckingham Palace and a meeting with King Charles III.

F.J./M.Z.