What Next for Syria the New Syria?

Audere Group hosted its quarterly Dinner Event on Tuesday 21st October, focused this time on the prospects of the newly-established Syrian state. The speakers were Diana Darke, renowned author, Arabist, and cultural expert on the Middle East, and Ann Snow, the UK Special Representative for Syria. The evening was moderated by the former Foreign Secretary, and Defence Secretary, and current Chairman of Audere Group, Sir Malcom Rifkind.

Ms Darke opened the discussion with a personal insight on her 2014 book, My House in Damascus: An Inside View of the Syrian Crisis, framing the region within a historical narrative highlighting Syria’s location on the crossroads of military and trade routes through the Middle East. Ms Snow further reinforced the flexible and resilient nature of the Syrian people which has flourished despite their turbulent recent history. The forum discussed the opportunities for foreign direct investment, the need for all sanctions in particular the Caesar Act to be lifted, and the importance of relationships built on trust in the new Syrian republic; furthermore, stressing that regional backing and financial support was paramount to the future stability of Syria. The tone of the evening was cautiously optimistic emphasising that international cooperation was necessary for lasting stability.

The Audere Group has an incorporated company in Syria and maintains an active operational presence in Damascus. From there, the team of Audere Levant facilitates the approach of foreign companies to the market by providing market entry intelligence, due diligence, and the necessary security ‘wrap’ for executives on the ground.  The business has a trusted network of local partners who work to in tandem with the team at head office in London to provides services that mitigate the financial, reputational and security risks facing foreign investors.