Dubai, Sept. 15 (SANA)President Ahmadal-Sharaasaid Syria is entering a new phase focused on rebuilding state institutions, strengthening economic growth and restoring its regional and international role, during a dialogue titled “Syria of the Future” at the 2026 Arab Media Summit in Dubai.

President al-Sharaa arrived at theDubai World Trade Centreon Tuesday to participate as a keynote speaker at the summit, which brings together media leaders, officials and industry figures from across theArab worldto discuss developments shaping the media sector and regional issues.

During the session, the president said Syrians today feel a deep sense of pride in the support and solidarity expressed by Arab and Muslim countries following the liberation of Damascus.

“Among the most genuine expressions of these sentiments were the words of SheikhMohammed bin Rashid, who said days after the liberation of Damascus: ‘The Syrian people hold a special place in the heart, and Damascus has always been loved — before and after,’” he said.

President al-Sharaa added that the liberation of Damascus “restored Syrians’ confidence in the state and renewed hope not only among Syrians, but across the entire region.”

The president said Syria had endured six decades of administrative corruption and poor planning and was now working to rebuild its institutions.

“Syria went through six decades of administrative corruption and poor planning. Today, it is rebuilding itself and its institutions. This phase has its own unique circumstances, and we are seeking to draw on all available experiences despite the challenges,” he said.

President al-Sharaa saidSyriafaced major challenges following the liberation of Damascus, including the risk of internal division, sectarian conflict, infrastructure and energy pressures, as well as the impact of sanctions.

“We were able to overcome these challenges in a very short period,” he said.

He added that Syria, once viewed by the world and media as a major problem, had become “a great opportunity from which everyone can benefit,” saying the country had regained its regional and international role.

President al-Sharaa said Syria had transformed from a country associated with captagon production and conflict into a zone of stability.

“The world has begun to view it as a secure trade corridor linking East and West and supporting global supply chains,” he said.

The president highlighted the role of the UAE in recognizing investment opportunities in Syria, saying Dubai Ports had invested in the Port of Tartous.

“Syria’s strategic location serves the region, and its stability is a shared interest for all,” he said.

President al-Sharaa said sanctions imposed on Syria over decades had affected generations that grew up without familiarity with modern financial systems, banking transactions and related mechanisms.

“Lifting the sanctions marks a new beginning for Syria,” he said.

He added that Syria was undergoing a transition from a system marked by corruption and bureaucracy toward a more open economy that supports the private sector and free-market principles.

“We are now in a transitional phase that may bring certain challenges and shocks. We need to take important decisions whose positive effects will become clear over time,” he said.

President al-Sharaa said Syria’s economy was valued at $20 billion when Damascus was liberated in 2024, describing the figure as modest, before growing to $32 billion in 2025.

“Our expectations are that it will reach $50 billion this year,” he said.The president added that Syria offers significant opportunities for Gulf countries, neighboring states and Europe, with major investment projects being planned.

“Syria’s agricultural sector is vital, and with access to modern technologies, it could help contribute to food security across the region,” he said.

President al-Sharaa said Syria is open to all partners and relies greatly on support from Arab countries, adding that it has built relations with a wide range of parties.

“Syria has clear principles, foremost among them credibility, and this is what has encouraged countries to build relations with it,” he said.

On regional stability, the president said that Syria was working to reduce the impact of conflicts and prevent future risks.

“We are working to achieve stability in the region, and there are concerns that conflicts could expand further,” he said.

“We are working with our Arab partners to find ways to mitigate the impact of wars and help prevent potential risks in the future,” President al-Sharaa added.

He said Syria’s policy was to continue working with determination to serve the Syrian people.

“Syria will become a strong country, with growth in its economy, scientific development and all areas of life, while safeguarding the dignity, independence and pride of its citizens,” the president said.

Addressing the role of media, President al-Sharaa stressed the importance of credibility and accuracy.

“The media’s mission is a great responsibility. It is important to uphold credibility, ensure the reliability of information and avoid politicizing it, given its significant impact on society,” he said.