Marking a significant step toward re-engaging Syria with the international economic community, the Syrian-British Business Council (SBBC) has launched its activities at the Royal Semiramis Hotel in Damascus, in the presence of ministers, ambassadors, and business leaders from various sectors in both countries.
In his address, the Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry, Nidal al-Shaar, emphasized hosting the Council in Damascus is an important event and a message signaling Syria’s return to the international community and the restoration of its economic standing.
Minister of Finance Muhammad Barnieh stated the Council forms a vital channel for communication between the business sectors of Syria and Britain, serving as a platform to encourage job opportunities and develop Syrian-British economic and investment relations.
“We are keen to deepen economic and trade relations with various countries of the world,” Barnieh said, adding that such councils constitute essential channels for enhancing communication and expanding bilateral economic partnerships. He noted that the government is working to prepare an attractive investment environment and support the business sector, while facilitating the Council’s mission to establish real partnerships rather than hold symbolic meetings.
Rebuilding Syria’s Commercial Identity
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdulsalam Haykal affirmed many companies will be re-launched, adding, “Today we are witnessing the return of Syria to the world, and the Syrian government has the mission of restoring Syria’s commercial identity, the identity it was known for around the world for decades and which is capable of building strong partnerships.”
Tourism Minister Mazen Salehani highlighted the post-liberation initiative of businessmen who have mobilized to support the government during this stage, pointing to ongoing efforts to elevate the tourism sector.
International Attention
Bahraini Ambassador Waheed Mubarak Sayyar noted that the launch of the SBBC will be a supportive gateway for European and Western investment in Syria. He stressed the council’s importance in encouraging British and Western investors to engage in the Syrian market, ultimately benefiting Syrian citizens.
Burhan Kuruoğlu, the Turkish Ambassador to Damascus, underscored the necessity of activating and supporting relations between Syria and various Arab and European countries, emphasizing the Council’s positive impact on developing Syria’s economic and commercial sectors.
Several participating Syrian and British businessmen expressed the importance of establishing the SBBC inside Syria, noting that it will have a positive effect on strengthening the country’s global economic relations. They confirmed that joint committees, regular meetings, and reciprocal visits are planned to activate relations in the coming period across economic, commercial, and financial fields.
The SBBC initiative was first launched in London on November 13, in the presence of Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs Asaad al-Shaibani, with the aim of building mutually beneficial partnerships between companies, universities, and organizations operating in Syria and the UK, contributing to Syria’s development by improving its business and educational environment.
