How Can Emigrant Syrian Capitals Contribute To The Reconstruction?
The topic of reconstruction in Syria already transcended the premise of the political desire of
supporters and benefactors, and the discussions have moved on to the field of economics and
investments, to implement a comprehensive study and constitute right foundations for
execution.
The question today is, what is the role of Syrian expatriate entrepreneurs in these discussions?
And how the concerned governments plan to attract their investments and recruit the strong
and valuable relationships they have in their countries of immigration? Hence, positively
support and encourage the return of the refugees to Syria, who are a vital human force in the
dynamics of the Syrian economy.
On the other hand, what is the sentiment and attitude of these Syrian entrepreneurs towards
the reconstruction case and the issue of the return of the refugees?
Damsco trade group which is headquartered in Dubai, perceived that circumstances became
favorable to execute development projects in most Syrian regions and contribute to the return
of the refugees to their country.
Mohannad Al Masre, Founder & Chairman of Damsco Group, who visited Syrian refugee camps
in Hatay, southern Turkey, collaborated with the Turkish Red Crescent and observed the
condition of the refugees and provided aides of food, clothes and heating appliances to
thousands. He also expressed optimism after perceiving their craving desire to return to their
country.
Mr. Mohannad Al Masre collaborated with the Martyr’s Affairs Office in Damascus and
significantly contributed to the Martyrs’ Sons Center. He stated that “Syria is on the threshold
of a historical turn and a new phase, different from the last eight years of war. This requires
from all Syrians, especially business entrepreneurs, to get involved and start reconstructing
their country.”
He pointed that their group, in particular, will be a pioneer in executing many significant plans
and projects in the country, which will create thousands of new job opportunities, encouraging
Syrians to return, and limit dependence on external aids.
He also stressed that “It is essential to have sustainable safety and stability in Syria to start the
projects” for which all sides stand liable.
Mohannad Al Masre called his fellow compatriots to be prepared to return to Syria and
reconstruct the country, stressing that “Fellow entrepreneurs should be in the forefront of the
delegation when sustainable stability is achieved in Syria.”
In his response to the inquiry about projects that Damsco Group plans to carry out in Syria, he
emphasized the importance of “Centering these projects around the Syrian individual and
developing human resources, thus, prepare more youth to enter the labor market.”
He also added: “Practically we started supporting rehabilitation and training centers in refugee
camps in regions neighboring Syria, which are meant to expand to all Syrian regions in the
upcoming stages.”
He stated that “There are professional rehabilitation centers affiliated to the Group inside and
outside Syria, which aim to train Syrian individuals and integrate them to the labor market,
taking a huge burden off their shoulders.”
There is also the problem of “Lack of professional labor, and to solve this problem, we created
an internet platform to apply for free professional training courses.”
Mohannad Al Masre focused on “the importance of supporting agricultural projects,
considering the fertility of Syrian lands, and the urge to abolish the need for external food aids.”
**Supporting Small Projects**
“As a Syrian entrepreneur, I see that small projects and domestic workshops have been a part
of the Syrian culture for decades, and we should preserve and empower this culture, ensuring
that it remains rooted in the Syrian mindset.”
He continues “We know that there is great need to develop the real estate sector in Syria, but
we shouldn’t focus all efforts to support this sector only, as this will cause an imbalance, which
will negatively affect the attainment of sustainable peace.”
He also indicated that “Obtaining the financial capital for reconstruction is insufficient without
having the needed professional skills, and the war left a huge gap in human resources.”
The Syrian entrepreneur Mohannad Al Masre concluded saying: “I perceived a strong desire to
return in Syrian expatriates”, and he considers this desire to be “Positive energy and
motivation” for him as an entrepreneur, to initiate the beginning of a new phase in the country.
Let us remember that, Damsco Group was established in Damascus in 2004, and moved to UAE
in 2011, and became one of the Syrian companies that actively contribute to the reconstruction
of Syria, implementing the energy of the Syrian youth with its diverse spectrum.
Written By: Mohannad Al Masre
Website: http://mohannad-almasre.com/