Damascus Countryside, July 22 (SANA)The “NASTEX” exhibition has evolved from a venue for showcasing textile products into a platform for launching new initiatives aimed at preserving Syrian heritage, with the start of a joint project between the Friends of Rural Damascus Association and the “Seen” Training and Consultancy Foundation affiliated with theMinistry of Culture. The project seeks to develop and expand thetraditional Aghabani craftand empower women in Rural Damascus.

Ayman Al‑Sayyed, head of the Friends of Damascus countryside Association, told SANA that the commercial, cultural, and heritage‑focused project aims to transfer the expertise of Aghabani production from the city ofDoumato wider areas in Damascus countryside particularly Eastern Ghouta and Qalamoun—through training workshops led by the association’s trainers to prepare a new generation of craftswomen and ensure the sustainability of this traditional craft.

Al‑Sayyed noted that initial plans have been set for a specialized ten‑day training course in the city of Al‑Qutayfah, covering all stages of Aghabani production—not embroidery alone—with trainers from the association overseeing the sessions.

For his part, Ahmad Barhoum, a researcher in folk heritage and a member of the association, explained that the organization is working to revive this legacy and expand its reach across rural areas, as it embodies and expresses national identity.

He pointed out that before the outbreak of the Syrian revolution, Douma had nearly 15,000 Aghabani machines, and thousands of women worked in this craft, which served as a primary source of income for families—motivating continued efforts to preserve and expand the craft after liberation.

Barhoum highlighted the cultural dimension of the “NASTEX” exhibition, which opens the door for launching new projects that help protect traditional crafts, strengthen their presence, and promote awareness of their cultural and economic value.

Esraa Abu Housh from the “Seen” Foundation noted the institution’s efforts to preserve traditional handmade crafts, adding that it will provide the space and necessary equipment for conducting training courses, creating an environment that enables women to acquire Aghabani skills and strengthen their economic empowerment.

The NASTEX International Textile Exhibition concluded Tuesday after hosting more than 300 companies representing over 20 countries.