Damascus, July 1 (SANA)Participants in theSyrian-British Business Council (SBBC)conference held Wednesday inDamascusaffirmed the importance of boosting economic cooperation betweenSyriaand theUnited Kingdom. The event served as a platform to explore investment opportunities and discuss prospects for future collaboration in trade, industry, transport, and tourism.

Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Ayman Hamouyeh said the conference helps highlight available investment opportunities in Syria and attract British companies interested in sectors such as oil, energy, gas, technology, industry, and commerce. He stressed that business councils are vital tools for supporting development and economic recovery by promoting investment, improving Syrian exports, and enhancing networking between the Syrian private sector and international partners.

Mazen Derwan, President of the Federation of Syrian Chambers of Industry, underlined the significance of the conference in supporting Syria’s industrial, commercial, agricultural, and tourism sectors. He noted that after years of challenges, Syria needs to expand cooperation and economic openness with countries worldwide to bolster recovery and reconstruction.

Leila Al-Samman, Vice President of the Damascus Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the role of such conferences in fostering economic dialogue and exchanging ideas on investment realities in Syria. She said specialized sessions on transport, tourism, and trade allow participants to discuss mechanisms for developing these sectors and strengthen ties between Syrian and foreign business leaders.

James Young, Assistant Director of the SBBC, explained that the council’s first conference in Damascus aims to enhance communication between business leaders and decision-makers in both countries. He noted that the council’s membership includes companies active in energy, pharmaceuticals, construction, and education, sectors that represent key areas of interest for future cooperation.

The conference, held under the theme “Building a Diversified Economy,” brought together representatives from ministries and economic institutions from both countries at the Golden Mazzeh Hotel in Damascus.