In a scene reflecting the aspirations for a promising economic phase, the Syrian capital, Damascus, witnessed a historic day with the official reopening of the Damascus Securities Exchange (DSE) after a six month hiatus. High-ranking officials and prominent economic figures, investors and traders attended and participated in the ceremony—a strong indication of the economy’s recovery.
A Message of Recovery and Ambition
In his speech, Minister of Finance Muhammad Barnieh emphasized the symbolic and practical dimensions of this step, saying, “The reopening of the DSE is a message that the Syrian economy has begun to move and recover.” The minister outlined the future vision for the market, indicating its transformation into a “private company and a true center for developing the Syrian economy.” with a focus on keeping pace with global digital developments. “Justice, fairness, private sector leadership, and attracting investment,” are all goals said Barnieh, emphasizing the existence of promising investment opportunities.
Readiness and Preparation for the Future
For his part, the market’s CEO, Dr. Basil Asaad, described the opening as “an important historic day for Syria,” expressing the team’s readiness to return and play their role during the coming period, which he expects will witness “larger and broader investments in the new Syria.” Asaad pointed to the challenges they faced, saying, “Despite limited capabilities, we were able to implement what was required with transparency and protecting investor ownership,” expressing his confidence in the market’s ability to “keep pace with future developments,”
A New Chapter and Fertile Investment Opportunities
Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Syrian Commission on Securities and Markets, Dr. Abdulrazzaq al-Qassem, considered the resumption of trading “a new chapter in the history of the Syrian securities sector and financial markets.” Qassem sees a bright future in light of changing circumstances, saying, “After the lifting of sanctions and the opening up to Arab and international investments, the new Syria will be fertile ground for investment opportunities.” He emphasized that the Commission has developed “an ambitious vision befitting our country’s potential and capabilities for the future.”
A Pivotal Role Beyond Trading
Chairman of the Damascus Securities Exchange, Fadi Jleilati, concluded the speeches by emphasizing, “today we stand at the threshold of a new phase in our economic history, a new beginning toward a bright economy that will restore Syria’s position as a leading financial and commercial center.” Jleilati expanded on the market’s expected role, noting that it “will not be merely a platform for stock and bond trading,” but will play an active role in “reconstruction, economic growth, and attracting local and international investments.” The DSE will contribute to “stabilizing the national currency and linking the Syrian economy to global economies.”
The DSE’s reopening represents more than just a return to financial activity, it is a declaration of Syria’s determination to pursue a new economic path based on openness, transparency, and investment, seeking to regain its regional position at the heart of a promising financial future.
