Sustainable recovery in Syria hinges on substantial investment and the creation of effective partnerships between the Syrian government, international donors, and the private sector, according to Michael Ohnmacht, Chargé d’Affaires of the European Union Delegation to Syria.
Speaking on the sidelines of a recent economic forum in Damascus, Ohnmacht stressed that these pillars will be decisive in shaping Syria’s economic trajectory in the coming phase.
Moving Beyond Aid
Ohnmacht emphasized that Syria’s recovery cannot depend solely on humanitarian assistance. Revitalizing the economy, he said, will require multibillion-dollar investments and a more active role for the private sector in development projects, according to remarks carried by the state news agency SANA late Friday.
Creating an environment capable of attracting such investment, he noted, demands close coordination between the Syrian government and international partners. Only through this cooperation, he argued, can new opportunities be unlocked for entrepreneurs and investors seeking to participate in the country’s economic revival.
Institutional Support and Technical Assistance
Strengthening public institutions, Ohnmacht added, is a central component of the broader recovery strategy. He underscored the need to draw on international expertise and expand technical training and qualification programs to enhance the performance of Syrian ministries and public bodies.
In a notable policy development, the EU envoy announced that the European Union is preparing to launch a new Technical Assistance Center.
“The upcoming center aims to provide direct support to Syrian ministries and institutions, developing their capacities and fostering stronger cooperation with the private sector,” Ohnmacht said.
He reiterated that sustained coordination between the Syrian government, donor countries, and the EU remains essential for the success of long-term development programs.
Economic Re-engagement and Dialogue
Ohnmacht delivered his remarks during the closing day of the First National Syrian Private Sector Dialogue Conference, held at the Palace of Conferences in Damascus.
He also noted that the EU is taking steps toward re-engaging economically with Syria and supporting its reintegration into global markets—an essential component, he said, of any credible reconstruction effort.
This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
