Syrian and Indonesian officials and business leaders met in Damascus to discuss expanding cooperation in trade, investment and tourism, as both sides seek to revive economic relations after years of limited exchange.
The meeting was hosted by Syrian businessman Ayman Baranjakji, former head of the Syrian-Indonesian Business Council. Participants included Indonesian Ambassador to Syria Lukman Hakim Siregar, Head of the Damascus and Countryside Chamber of Industry Ayman Mawlawi and Honorary President of the Damascus Chamber of Commerce Muhammad al-Ashqar.
Several prominent Syrian merchants, industrialists and business figures also attended, along with board members from chambers of industry and commerce and senior staff from the Indonesian Embassy in Damascus. Discussions focused on reopening channels for economic cooperation and encouraging new partnerships in investment, commerce and tourism.
Plans for a Joint Economic Framework
In his remarks, Baranjakji highlighted the longstanding historical relationship between Syria and Indonesia. He noted Syria was the first country to recognize Indonesia’s independence, describing those political ties as a foundation for stronger economic cooperation. Baranjakji said current conditions present an opportunity to rebuild bilateral trade relations after years of decline.
He added Syria’s business sector remains capable of forming partnerships with Asian markets, particularly Indonesia, which he described as one of the region’s largest economies. He also revealed that an official request had been submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates to establish a Syrian-Indonesian Chamber of Commerce.
According to Baranjakji, the proposed chamber would provide a more flexible institutional framework to support import and export activity, encourage joint investments and facilitate direct communication between business communities in both countries. Participants at the meeting represented a range of economic sectors, including food industries, textiles, paper manufacturing, shipping, aviation, consumer goods, information technology and footwear.
Visa Access and Tourism Opportunities
Ambassador Siregar said relations between Syria and Indonesia hold significant potential for growth in the coming years. He pointed to the success of Indomie products in the Syrian market as an example of effective economic partnership and said the experience could serve as a basis for broader industrial and commercial cooperation.
Siregar also confirmed the Indonesian Embassy’s willingness to facilitate visa procedures for Syrian business delegations and tourists in an effort to encourage exchange visits and expand investment opportunities.
In addition to trade, the ambassador emphasized the importance of strengthening tourism cooperation. He noted increasing Syrian interest in Indonesia as a travel destination and highlighted opportunities for broader cultural exchange between the two countries.
Calls for Industrial Partnerships
Ashqar praised efforts by Syrian business leaders restoring international economic connections while crediting Baranjakji for helping establish industrial cooperation through the Indomie project, which he described as a successful venture despite early challenges.
Mawlawi also stressed the importance of deeper industrial cooperation and invited Ambassador Siregar to visit the Chamber of Industry headquarters to explore Syria’s industrial capabilities and discuss future partnerships.
