The Turkish government, alongside business leaders, gathered on Tuesday to strategize ways to assist Syria’s reconstruction and economic revival following the recent overthrow of former dictator Bashar Assad.
Rebuilding After Assad’s Fall
Assad’s removal after a swift opposition offensive has left Syria grappling with the aftermath of a 13-year civil war. The conflict devastated the country’s infrastructure and economy, displacing millions and causing significant loss of life.
Türkiye, the first nation to reopen its embassy in Damascus, has expressed its commitment to aiding Syria’s recovery. A meeting held in Ankara, led by Trade Minister Ömer Bolat, brought together business representatives, industrial chambers, and NGOs to explore collaboration opportunities.
“The primary focus is what our business community and nation can contribute to Syria’s reconstruction, economic growth, and trade development in this new era,” the Trade Ministry stated.
A Path to Sustainable Stability
The ministry emphasized that robust cooperation between Türkiye and Syria is essential to fostering sustainable governance, peace, and security. The war has left over 500,000 dead and millions displaced, including 7 million internally and 6 million abroad. Türkiye currently hosts nearly 3 million Syrian refugees, though recent developments have prompted over 25,000 to return.
Unlocking Syria’s Trade Potential
On the same day, Bilgehan Engin, head of the Association of International Transport and Logistics Service Providers (UTIKAD), shed light on Syria’s untapped trade opportunities with Türkiye.
Engin revealed that the current trade volume of $2 billion could expand to $6 billion in the short-to-medium term as stability improves. He noted Syria’s reconstruction budget, estimated at $400 billion over the next two to four years, presents a lucrative opportunity for Türkiye’s logistics and infrastructure sectors.
“Turkish ports and transport networks can serve as critical channels for delivering materials and goods needed to rebuild Syria’s homes, businesses, and utilities,” Engin explained.
Before 2013, Syria was a vital trade partner for Türkiye, with trade potential far exceeding current levels. “If the pre-2013 momentum had been maintained, trade could have reached $6 billion or more today,” Engin added.
Strategic Importance for Türkiye
Syria’s recovery is expected to influence Türkiye’s geopolitical, political, and economic landscape. Engin stressed that developments in Syria, particularly in logistics and project transportation, could drive substantial growth for Turkish industries while strengthening regional ties.