A Strategic Partnership Gifts Latakia a New Pier
August 20, 2025202 ViewsRead Time: 2 minutes
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Rudolf Jack Saadeh, the Chairman of the French giant "CMA CGM" group, met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara at the People's Palace. The meeting was not just a routine visit, but a new milestone in the journey of reviving Syrian ports that have been exhausted by years of war and siege.
The agreement announced represents more than just an investment contract; it indicates a radical shift in Syrian economic policy.
The second phase of the project does not only mean building a new pier, but it is a practical declaration of Syria's return to the international maritime map. The agreed figure - 230 million euros over 30 years - is not just a financial value, but a vote of confidence in the future of the Syrian economy.
However, what is striking about the agreement are the clauses it contains. The international arbitration clause through the International Chamber of Commerce in London not only provided a legal cover for the French investment but also sent a reassuring message to foreign investors that the new Syria is serious about simplifying the business environment and protecting investments.
The approach to adopt dry ports and develop mechanisms for transporting goods through Damascus International Airport reveals a deeper vision. Syria does not only want to rebuild what the war has destroyed, but seeks to create an integrated logistics system that connects sea, land, and air.
In the background, there is a clear political message. The choice of a French company for this giant project is not a coincidence. It indicates a Syrian trend to rebuild bridges with Europe, surpassing the American siege that has lasted for years. Paris, for its part, has found in Syria a promising market and an opportunity to enhance its economic influence in the region.
The project will not be without challenges. The Port of Latakia needs more than just a new pier. The damaged infrastructure, financial constraints, and the legislative environment that still needs development are all obstacles on the path to success. However, the agreement represents a strong signal that Syria is determined to return to the global trade map.
The message that Damascus sends through this agreement is clear: We are ready to partner with the world, and we believe that our economy is capable of overcoming the effects of war.
The agreement announced represents more than just an investment contract; it indicates a radical shift in Syrian economic policy.
The second phase of the project does not only mean building a new pier, but it is a practical declaration of Syria's return to the international maritime map. The agreed figure - 230 million euros over 30 years - is not just a financial value, but a vote of confidence in the future of the Syrian economy.
However, what is striking about the agreement are the clauses it contains. The international arbitration clause through the International Chamber of Commerce in London not only provided a legal cover for the French investment but also sent a reassuring message to foreign investors that the new Syria is serious about simplifying the business environment and protecting investments.
The approach to adopt dry ports and develop mechanisms for transporting goods through Damascus International Airport reveals a deeper vision. Syria does not only want to rebuild what the war has destroyed, but seeks to create an integrated logistics system that connects sea, land, and air.
In the background, there is a clear political message. The choice of a French company for this giant project is not a coincidence. It indicates a Syrian trend to rebuild bridges with Europe, surpassing the American siege that has lasted for years. Paris, for its part, has found in Syria a promising market and an opportunity to enhance its economic influence in the region.
The project will not be without challenges. The Port of Latakia needs more than just a new pier. The damaged infrastructure, financial constraints, and the legislative environment that still needs development are all obstacles on the path to success. However, the agreement represents a strong signal that Syria is determined to return to the global trade map.
The message that Damascus sends through this agreement is clear: We are ready to partner with the world, and we believe that our economy is capable of overcoming the effects of war.
