President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC), Hadi Al-Bahra, emphasized the immediate need to transition from relying on humanitarian aid to fostering production and self-sufficiency. He stressed the importance of enhancing the productive capacity of Syrian citizens to prevent new humanitarian crises in the country.
In an interview with the local newspaper Enab Baladi, Al-Bahra highlighted the self-driven growth in liberated areas, where residents are initiating projects on commercial, industrial, and residential levels. He clarified that the SOC’s focus on economic and service advancement in northern Syria is a core objective and unrelated to other projects. Al-Bahra expressed support for the “voluntary and dignified return” of Syrian refugees in all host countries.
Al-Bahra expressed the SOC’s aspiration for Syrian entrepreneurs and skilled individuals to contemplate returning to Syria and contributing to the development of northern Syria. He outlined the current approach of attracting more Syrian businessmen and investors to liberated areas, expanding economic activities, and directing international relief programs to boost productivity. This strategy aims to secure grants and small loans instead of relying solely on relief aid.
Highlighting the importance of security and stability in encouraging investment, Al-Bahra acknowledged ongoing efforts in this regard. However, he recognized the challenges of establishing a completely secure environment in the current unstable conditions of Syria.
Al-Bahra shared his recent visits to factories in liberated areas exporting products outside Syria, indicating that despite challenging circumstances, some individuals are investing in these areas. He emphasized the necessity of an action plan to advance northern Syria economically, driven by the plight of displaced individuals, especially those living in camps for nearly 13 years. Al-Bahra underscored the SOC’s commitment to securing temporary housing that upholds human dignity, providing opportunities for education and stability for children and young people.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
