Syria's economy ministry seeks to revive industry through regional partnerships

DAMASCUS, Syria — Syria's Ministry of Economy and Industry is reviewing existing economic and industrial agreements with neighboring countries and weighing new deals aimed at reviving trade, investment and manufacturing, Deputy Economy Minister Mohammed Yaseen Hurriye said in Damascus. Hurriye said large investments will be needed in the coming years to rebuild Syria's industrial sector, including the renovation of industrial facilities, the modernization of production lines and the development of industrial cities and related infrastructure. The ministry is focused on expanding cooperation with "friendly and brotherly" countries and encouraging industrial partnerships, Hurriye said, adding that the effort is intended to ease access for Syrian products to external markets. He said neighboring countries could contribute to Syria's industrial recovery through financing, direct investment, technology and expertise transfers, joint industrial ventures, and technical and administrative training. Hurriye said no final figure has been set for the investment required to restart the industrial sector and that damage assessment work is continuing. He added that financing for industrial infrastructure projects and broader integration into regional supply chains could also form part of the cooperation with neighboring states. No further details on specific agreements or timelines were immediately provided.