Syria Revokes License of Talal Abu Ghazaleh Company for Denying Assad Regime Crimes

The Syrian Minister of Finance, Mohammed Issar Bernieh, announced today, Monday, the cancellation of the license of the Jordanian businessman Talal Abu Ghazaleh's company in Syria.

Bernieh stated in a post on his official LinkedIn page that the reason for the cancellation came after Abu Ghazaleh's recent media appearance, in which he denied the crimes committed by the Bashar al-Assad regime against the Syrians, considering all the circulated media scenes as "fabrications".

Bernieh mentioned that Abu Ghazaleh's denial of Assad regime crimes contradicts Article 49 of the Syrian Constitutional Declaration, which states (the state criminalizes glorifying the ousted Assad regime and its symbols, and denying his crimes, praising them, justifying them, or belittling them are crimes punishable by law).

Bernieh explained that the decision he made as the Minister of Finance and the Chairman of the Board of Audit and Control, with the approval of the board members, includes suspending the renewal of the company's license, allowing it to complete contracted work until the end of the current year 2025.

He also indicated that Syria, represented by its governor at regional and international financial institutions and funds, will address these entities to express its reservation about granting any future contracts to Abu Ghazaleh's companies.

The minister added that the Syrian government will require companies and investors wishing to operate in Syria not to contract with Talal Abu Ghazaleh's companies for consultancy or auditing services, as part of the conditions for obtaining investment licenses.

Bernieh affirmed that "the new Syrian state will not tolerate those who deny the sacrifices and pains of the Syrian people", emphasizing that Syria will continue its reconstruction "with dignity and honor" to ensure a decent life for its citizens.