Damascus: President of the Syrian Arab Republic, Ahmad Al Sharaa, today welcomed Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, at the Presidential Headquarters in Damascus. Dr. Al Zeyoudi led a UAE delegation that included notable figures such as Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Derei, and Mohamed Alabbar, among other senior officials and business leaders, to discuss potential partnership opportunities aimed at supporting Syria's economic recovery.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Zeyoudi conveyed greetings from UAE leaders, including President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other dignitaries, expressing hopes for Syria's prosperity and development. In response, President Al Sharaa extended his greetings to the UAE leadership, affirming the strong fraternal ties and mutual commitment towards sustainable development between the two nations.
The discussions, attended by Noura Al Kaabi, Dr. Omar Al Derei, Mohamed Alabbar, and Hamad Rashid Al Habsi, UAE Ambassador to Syria, focused on enhancing cooperation in trade and investment sectors. Al Zeyoudi reiterated UAE's support for Syria's economic recovery, highlighting the participation of over 140 delegates from various sectors, including trade, investment, and technology, in the visit.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi engaged in bilateral meetings with several Syrian ministers, addressing strategic cooperation in priority sectors and establishing a roadmap to strengthen economic ties. Notably, non-oil bilateral trade between the UAE and Syria reached approximately US$1.4 billion in 2025, showcasing a significant increase and mutual trust.
Al Zeyoudi emphasized UAE's commitment to Syria's economic recovery, noting the promising prospects for elevating trade relations. He highlighted the unique foundations of the economic partnership, focusing on maximizing capabilities, exchanging expertise, and launching joint projects for sustainable economic benefits.
The visit also featured the First UAE-Syria Business Forum, with participation from Syrian ministers and business leaders. The forum focused on exploring trade and investment opportunities, aiming to lay the groundwork for renewed strategic economic relations, fostering prosperity for both nations.