Syrian President and Libyan Delegation Discuss Strengthening Economic Cooperation

Damascus hosts high-level talks as both nations seek to revive trade and investment ties

Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa met with a Libyan delegation on Tuesday at Qasr al-Shaab in Damascus, in a meeting focused on expanding economic and commercial cooperation between the two countries, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).

The Libyan delegation was led by Mohammed Abdul Karim Al-Ruayid, head of the Libyan Federation of Chambers of Commerce, and included representatives from Libya's trade and investment sectors. Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal al-Shaar, along with several other economic officials, attended the talks.

Key Areas of Discussion

The discussions centered on mechanisms to develop economic relations, enhance trade exchange, and explore new investment opportunities. Both sides emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in ways that serve mutual interests and open broader horizons for investors and business communities in both countries.

According to SANA, the meeting covered several priority areas:

  • Trade expansion: Increasing bilateral trade volume and removing barriers to commercial exchange
  • Investment partnerships: Creating new joint ventures between Syrian and Libyan economic institutions
  • Private sector engagement: Encouraging chambers of commerce and private enterprises to build direct partnerships
  • Industrial collaboration: Exploring cooperation in manufacturing and industrial development

A New Chapter in Syrian-Libyan Relations

The meeting is part of a broader diplomatic push by Syria's transitional government under President Al-Sharaa to rebuild international and regional ties following the fall of the Assad regime. Since assuming leadership, Al-Sharaa has pursued an active diplomatic agenda, hosting delegations from Arab and international partners.

For Libya, the engagement reflects a growing interest in strengthening ties with Syria's new administration. The Libyan Federation of Chambers of Commerce, representing the country's private sector, is seeking to activate economic partnerships that had remained dormant during years of political instability in both nations.

Economic Context and Opportunities

Both Syria and Libya face significant reconstruction needs after prolonged periods of conflict. Syria's infrastructure requires massive investment following more than a decade of civil war, while Libya continues to rebuild after years of internal divisions. Economic cooperation between the two countries could unlock new opportunities in sectors such as construction, energy, transportation, and agriculture.

Trade between Syria and Libya has historically been modest but held potential for growth. The current push aims to revitalize commercial relations by leveraging the strengths of both economies — Syria's industrial base and skilled workforce, and Libya's energy resources and reconstruction demand.

Regional Implications

The meeting also carries broader significance for the region. Syria's reintegration into Arab economic circles has gained momentum since the political transition, with several Arab states signaling willingness to deepen economic engagement. Libya's active participation in this process underscores the changing diplomatic landscape in the Middle East.

Analysts note that institutionalizing economic cooperation between Damascus and Tripoli could serve as a foundation for wider regional collaboration, particularly in trade facilitation and cross-border investment frameworks.

Next Steps

Both sides agreed to continue follow-up discussions through technical committees and chamber of commerce channels. The Libyan Federation of Chambers of Commerce has expressed interest in organizing a business forum that would bring together Syrian and Libyan entrepreneurs to explore concrete investment projects.

The Syrian Ministry of Economy and Industry is expected to prepare a framework agreement outlining specific cooperation mechanisms, which could be signed in a future round of talks.

— Libya Press / News Desk