As Syria continues its reconstruction efforts strengthening vital sectors after years of war, regional cooperation emerges as a crucial factor supporting the recovery process. In this context, the official visit of Syrian Minister of Agriculture, Amjad Badr, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation in the field of food security and agricultural development.
Partnership with Saudi Naqua
During his visit to Riyadh, Badr met with officials from the Saudi Naqua Aquaculture Company, one of the largest aquaculture companies in the region and globally. During the meeting, they discussed ways of joint cooperation and investment opportunities for Syrian fisheries, a promising sector that could significantly contribute to achieving food security and diversifying sources of income in Syria.
Naqua produces approximately 100,000 tons of seafood products annually, exports its products to more than 32 countries around the world, and employs approximately 4,000 workers of 32 different nationalities. It also has multiple projects covering shrimp, fish, sea cucumbers, and feed.
Minister Badr and his accompanying delegation toured the Naqua complex, where they were briefed on the advanced aquaculture and harvesting processes used by the company, including highly efficient automated production and packaging lines, and the practical mechanisms used in managing existing projects.
The delegation also listened to a detailed explanation of the company’s projects and work mechanisms, providing valuable opportunities to gain firsthand insight into Saudi Arabia’s advanced expertise in this field.
Distinguished Attendance and Supportive Partnerships
Dr. Nasreddin al-Obaid, Director General of the Arab Center for the Studies of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ACSAD), participated in the tour, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation in supporting these efforts. During the meeting, the importance of forming a joint committee developing strategic plans for future cooperation and identifying joint action priorities were discussed.
Minister Badr’s visit was not limited to a meeting with Naqua Company alone; it also included a meeting with his Saudi counterpart, Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Abdulrahman bin Abulmuhsin al-Fadhli.
During the meeting, established ways of enhancing cooperation in agriculture, food security, and water management. They also discussed the possibility of transferring Saudi expertise to Syria supporting agricultural production development efforts and promising investment opportunities in the fields of horses, fish, agricultural laboratories, and palm production.
Important Agreements for Future Cooperation
The ministers agreed on several important points, including the formation of a joint working group between the two ministries developing a clear action plan and supporting Saudi investments in the Syrian agricultural sector. They also agreed to focus on competitive Syrian products, such as olives and palm trees, and to raise the technical level of agricultural production in Syria.
