U.S.–Syria Business Council and Middle East Institute Convene High-Level Roundtable with H.E. Dr. Mohammad Nidal Al-Shaar, Minister of Economy and Industry of Syria
October 16, 2025 — Washington, D.C. — The U.S.–Syria Business Council (USSYBC) and the Middle East Institute (MEI) convened a high-level U.S.–Syria Business Roundtable with H.E. Dr. Mohammad Nidal Al-Shaar, Minister of Economy and Industry of the Syrian Arab Republic, during the IMF and World Bank Fall Meetings in Washington, D.C.
The closed-door discussion brought together representatives from over 20 U.S. corporations, leading law firms, and financial institutions, alongside Syrian diaspora business leaders and MEI senior leaders, to discuss Syria’s new economic vision, ongoing private-sector reforms, and opportunities for U.S. investment in Syria’s high-potential market.
Speaking at the roundtable, Minister Al-Shaar emphasized that the delegation’s visit to Washington aimed to advance dialogue and foster renewed economic engagement between Syria and the United States. He highlighted Syria’s commitment to rebuilding a free-market economy, establishing a credible, inclusive, and globally connected financial system, and advancing digital transformation. Minister Al-Shaar also underscored the important role that U.S. companies can play in this process—particularly through technology transfer.
Discussions also explored the future of public–private partnerships (PPPs) and the government’s new investment framework, which protects investors, facilitates international arbitration, removes prior restrictions on ownership and capital flows, and prioritizes transparency and private-sector empowerment.
“We are focused on aligning Syria’s economic policies with international standards, reestablishing communication with our partners, and contributing to a shared vision of regional and global stability,” said H.E. Dr. Mohammad Nidal Al-Shaar, Minister of Economy and Industry.
USSYBC Chairman, Jay Salkini, noted that the roundtable “marked a turning point in direct dialogue between U.S. business leaders and Syrian economic policymakers,” adding that U.S. firms with early engagement stand to gain high-reward, first-mover opportunities as Syria reopens key sectors to investment.
The roundtable set the stage for continued high-level engagement throughout the week with the Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry, as well as the Governor of the Central Bank of Syria, H.E. Dr. Abdulkader Husrieh, and the Syrian Minister of Finance, H.E. Yisr Bernieh. Today the U.S.–Syria Business Council facilitated a discussion featuring the Syrian delegation at the Semafor World Economy Summit, as well as meetings between the Syrian delegation and key stakeholders, including high-level U.S. government officials, members of Congress, prominent think tanks, and representatives from leading business and financial institutions.
The U.S.–Syria Business Council team will remain in Washington throughout the week, engaging with delegates, investors, and partners attending the IMF and World Bank meetings. On Saturday, the Council will host a private community event for extended discussions and networking among members of the Syrian diaspora, business leaders, and visiting officials. Interested parties are invited to contact us for participation details.
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About the U.S.–Syria Business Council (USSYBC)
The U.S.–Syria Business Council is a nonprofit business organization dedicated to advancing bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the United States and Syria. Serving as a trusted platform and resource, the Council advocates for its member companies while providing the frameworks, local connections, and business, political, and legal insights needed to enter and operate responsibly in Syria’s emerging market.
About the Middle East Institute (MEI)
Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is a leading nonpartisan think tank promoting understanding and dialogue across the Middle East. MEI convenes experts, policymakers, and business leaders to advance informed engagement and practical solutions to regional challenges.