Damascus, Feb. 12 (Petra) -- Participants in the Jordanian-Syrian Investment Forum, which commenced Wednesday in Damascus, underscored the need to establish a strategic economic alliance between the two countries, founded on public-private sector partnership and shared economic interests.

The forum, organized by the Jordanian Businessmen Association in cooperation with the Syrian Businessmen and Businesswomen Association, highlighted the importance of leveraging available trade and investment opportunities and building on the expertise and track record of Jordanian investors.

The Jordanian delegation comprises representatives from key sectors, including contracting, construction, transport, logistics, education, energy, water, trade, agriculture, tourism, travel, industry, finance, banking, information technology, as well as free, development, and industrial zones.

Syrian Minister of Finance Mohammed Yasser Barnieh said bilateral economic relations are witnessing notable momentum, reflected in expanding trade volumes and deepening private sector partnerships. He noted that private sector institutions bear a central role in advancing cooperation in a manner that serves the mutual interests of both countries.

Speaking at the forum, Barnieh said Syria views its stability and economic recovery as positively influencing its regional environment and neighboring states. He expressed optimism regarding economic performance in 2026, citing current indicators and projecting double-digit growth that could exceed 10 percent if prevailing positive conditions persist.

He said the gradual lifting of sanctions, which began last year, is expected to generate tangible economic gains this year, pointing to the return of Syrian expatriates and growing investor interest in the Syrian market.

Barnieh added that the government is undertaking institutional and legislative reforms aimed at fostering an enabling investment climate and empowering the private sector to assume a leading role in economic activity. He stressed that the state will not compete with the private sector but will act as a facilitator and regulator.

He noted that reconstruction efforts represent a comprehensive and long-term development trajectory rather than a short-term phase, calling for structured partnerships with Jordanian business leaders based on integration and reciprocal benefit.

For his part, Jordan’s Ambassador to Syria, Sufian Qudah, said the Kingdom is committed to strengthening economic partnerships with Syria and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors to reinforce bilateral integration.

He added that official data indicate steady growth in bilateral trade, reflecting a promising upward trajectory in economic relations between the two countries.

//Petra// AJ

12/02/2026 14:08:35