Syria hosted a renewable energy investment promotion event at the second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) on Nov. 28. Syrian Ambassador to China Muhammad Hassanein Khaddam led the event, which included insights from Syrian power sector experts joining via video link. In an exclusive interview with China.org.cn afterward, Khaddam praised the expo's role in showcasing Syrian business opportunities to Chinese investors.

Syrian Ambassador to China Muhammad Hassanein Khaddam speaks at Syria's renewable energy investment promotion event during the second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), Beijing, Nov. 28, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

During the event, Khaddam emphasized Syria's shift toward renewable energy resources since 2007. He noted that recent conflicts had severely damaged national infrastructure, leading to significant power shortages.

In response, Syria's government has enacted laws to encourage investment in renewable energy projects. The country aims to increase total power capacity to 2,500 megawatts by 2030.

Adham Blan, Syria's deputy minister of electricity, spoke via video about investment opportunities in the power sector, particularly in electricity transmission equipment and infrastructure. He highlighted Chinese firms' significant contribution, noting that "80% of Syria's electrical grid was constructed by Chinese companies." Blan expressed interest in attracting more Chinese investment to strengthen China-Syria collaboration in the energy and power sectors.

Syrian Ambassador to China Muhammad Hassanein Khaddam speaks with China.org.cn at the second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), Beijing, Nov. 28, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

After the event, Ambassador Khaddam praised China for providing a platform that benefits developing countries like Syria, aligning with the win-win philosophy of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). "Syria is part of the BRI, which we believe is built on ethics and morality. And this is what we know about China," he told China.org.cn.

Khaddam commended the expo's efficiency in connecting global exhibitors, especially from developing countries, with potential supply chain partners. "We met so many companies in just one hour, saving time and energy," he said.

"We aim to present Syria's investment opportunities at an official level. This is our message to Chinese companies and the embassy's role," he said.

Hadam thanked the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade and expressed optimism about future participation. "Next year, we will have bigger participation," he said.