Happy birthday, Mr. President — and a new dawn for Syria 
Last week was a period of major exposure for the Syrian Arab Republic in Saudi Arabia. It began with social events honoring the Syrian delegation, hosted by members of the Saudi-Syrian Business Council.
This was followed by the Ministry of Investment hosting Saudi-Syrian roundtable meetings and then a cultural evening. The week concluded with a special session at the Future Investment Initiative conference featuring Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, in the presence of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The roundtable meetings allowed Syrian officials to share with the audience the latest developments in reforms and new regulations aimed at attracting foreign direct investment to Syria.
The Ministry of Investment organized these meetings by sector, providing a more focused approach given the tight schedule throughout the day.
The cultural evening organized by the ministry in Diriyah was unforgettable. The location, program, entertainment, and art auction, co-organized by the BMG Foundation, made for a remarkable night.
The entertainment featured melodies from Saudi Arabia and Syrian classics, followed by a charity art auction to support young talent in both countries.
Artists featured included Basil Al-Shehri and Ghaida Ashour from Saudi Arabia, along with Zain Manjouna and Ahmed Kretibi from Syria, who created works showcasing the talent of both nations.
Teams from the BMG Foundation, through its Diplomacy of Art initiative, and SoumTech, an online auction platform, partnered with the Ministry of Investment to host the auction. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Saudi aid agency KSrelief.
Saving the best for last, the finale was Al-Sharaa’s appearance in an interview at the FII conference. He began by praising Saudi Arabia’s leadership and economic model, stating that the Kingdom, under the crown prince, has become an economic compass and a destination for investors.
Al-Sharaa views Saudi Arabia as a vital partner in Syria’s economic recovery and reconstruction, emphasizing the importance of investment-driven growth and collaboration rather than aid alone.
Regarding the people of Syria, the president expressed confidence in their ability and dedication to rebuilding the country after enduring severe hardships, standing firm in their resolve, and ultimately securing victory.
Some analysts suggest that this shift signifies Syria’s effort to move from being seen as a security concern in the region to becoming a focal point for recovery and investment.
Many investors believe that Syria is opening up to the world, allowing foreign investors to repatriate capital and positioning itself as an emerging investment destination.
We at BMG began months ago creating a fund-of-funds investment platform called the Barada Opportunities Fund, which will focus on key sectors starting with energy, healthcare, and insurance.
It is a remarkable coincidence that the president’s interview in Riyadh took place on Oct. 29 — his birthday and in the city where he was born. We wish him a happy birthday and the people of Syria lasting peace, prosperity, and happiness, Insha Allah.
• Basil M.K. Al-Ghalayini is chairman and CEO of BMG Financial Group.
