In a move reflecting Syria’s shift toward organized economic liberalization, the Syrian Investment Authority hosted a series of high-level meetings in Damascus with representatives of Turkish companies and diplomats. The discussions come as part of broader efforts attracting foreign investment to support recovery and reconstruction.
Turkish Meetings to Strengthen Partnerships
Chairman of the Syrian Investment Authority, Engineer Talal al-Hilali, met with a delegation representing five major Turkish companies, TEPAV, BMC, TOBB, GTI, and ICO, to explore opportunities for economic cooperation. Talks focused on strategic projects with high national priority, including the establishment of new industrial cities and the development of railway networks to enhance logistics, trade flows, and regional connectivity.
Hilali also held a separate meeting with the Turkish Ambassador to Syria, Nuh Yilmaz, during which both sides discussed practical obstacles facing investors and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic cooperation.
Priority Sectors, Support and Unprecedented Legal Guarantees
During the meetings, Hilali outlined the new legislative framework governing investment, describing Decree No. 114 of 2025 as a qualitative shift in Syria’s investment climate. The decree grants foreign investors full ownership of projects, provides legal protection against seizure or arbitrary nationalization, and guarantees the freedom to transfer profits and capital abroad. He emphasized the decree simplifies procedures by designating the Syrian Investment Authority as a unified executive body, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and accelerating project approvals.
Hilali explained that current investment priorities focus on agriculture, particularly wheat and cotton, alongside industry, infrastructure, and construction. To support investors, the Authority established a specialized Project Management Office (PMO) offering technical assistance, coordination with relevant institutions, and continuous monitoring to ensure smooth implementation and address emerging challenges.
Broad Regional Opening
Syria’s outreach is not limited to Turkish partners. Hilali noted growing interest from Egyptian investors, especially in the agricultural and construction sectors, driven by the new legislative incentives and Syria’s expanding regional economic engagement.
Through legislative reform and direct dialogue with regional investors, the Syrian government aims to create a secure and attractive investment environment. These steps are intended to stimulate economic growth and accelerate reconstruction in the coming phase.
