SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

The Amman Forum officially commenced in Jordan on Monday, with the participation of delegations from Arab health ministries and several relevant international organizations, including the Syrian delegation that was headed by the Syrian Deputy Health Minister Hussien Al_Khatib.

The forum focuses on advancing universal health coverage (UHC) by strengthening primary health care systems and fostering regional collaboration to promote sustainable and innovative health financing solutions.

The event was inaugurated by Jordanian Minister of Health Dr. Ibrahim Al‑Bdour. The high-level forum is organized by the Ministry of Health in cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank, the French Development Agency (AFD), and the Global Fund. Represented by Deputy Health Minister Hussein Al‑Khatib, who heads the Syrian delegation.

The Faculty of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at Damascus University inaugurated its annual exhibition on Monday under the slogan “Syria’s Youth Shaping the Future.”

The event brings together several public and private universities, university professors, and representatives of scientific and industrial institutions. It aims to highlight the creativity of Syrian youth, turn academic innovations into practical industrial applications, and strengthen cooperation between universities and the production sector.

The exhibition features more than 155 engineering projects by students from universities across Syria, showcasing innovations in mechanical, electrical, and electronic engineering.

Displayed projects cover renewable energy, automation, robotics, smart control, communications, and engineering software systems, designed under faculty supervision.

The exhibition also underscores student innovation as a key driver of Syria’s technical modernization and reconstruction, contributing to the transformation of scientific knowledge into sustainable national achievements.

Syrian Minister of Endowments (Awqaf) Dr. Mohammad Abu al-Khair Shukri discussed with Secretary-General of the Muslim World League Mohammad al-Issa ways to enhance joint cooperation in religious and intellectual fields.

The meeting was held on the sidelines of the “Hajj Conference and Exhibition 1447 AH,” which opened Monday in the Saudi city of Jeddah.

According to the Ministry’s Telegram channel, the two sides discussed the importance of exchanging expertise to serve the tolerant message of Islam, promote the values of moderation and balance globally, continue coordination between religious and intellectual institutions, and consolidate the principles of dialogue and openness.

The meeting comes within the framework of the Syrian Ministry of Awqaf’s plan to strengthen cooperation with endowments ministries across Arab and Islamic

countries. On October 30, Minister Shukri held talks with Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar on joint cooperation in the fields of endowments, Islamic advocacy, and religious education.

Syria’s re-entry into the University Agency of the Francophonie (AUF) after a 15-year hiatus marks a pivotal moment in international academic cooperation, according to Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Marwan al-Halabi.

In an interview with SANA, al-Halabi confirmed that the AUF will soon reopen its office in Syria, signaling the country’s renewed engagement with global higher education networks.

This move, he emphasized, not only strengthens Syria’s regional and global standing in academia but also opens new avenues for Syrian universities to collaborate with institutions across the Francophone world and beyond. The goal, he said, is to foster partnerships rooted in mutual respect, shared knowledge, and joint research initiatives.

He also pointed to the recent 5th Conference of Ministers of Higher Education of the AUF, held in Dakar, Senegal, which addressed the ongoing global challenges in education and science. The conference called for united intellectual and humanitarian efforts to rebuild education’s role in peace-building and development.

Founded in 1961 in Montreal, the AUF is a global network of universities and research centers that use French as a primary or secondary language of instruction. The organization seeks to promote academic cooperation, scientific research, and knowledge exchange among its member institutions worldwide.

The 5th Hajj Conference and Exhibition kicked off on Monday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with the participation of Syria’s Minister of Awqaf, Mohammad Abu al-Khair Shukri. Organized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, this year’s conference is held under the theme “From Makkah to the World.”

The event features the inaugural Forum on the History of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques, hosted at the Jeddah Superdome. Attendees include dignitaries, officials, and representatives from Islamic countries, as well as Hajj affairs offices.

Running until the 12th of this month, the conference includes over 143 discussion sessions and workshops, with a select group of experts and speakers from more than 150 countries.

A delegation from Syria’s Ministry of Interior participated in an international conference focused on combating cybercrime, held in Nevşehir, Turkey. Organized by the International Association of Police Academies (INTERPA), the event is titled “Advanced Strategies in Combating Cybercrime.”

At the conference held from 06-08 November, the Syrian delegation, took part in discussions on the latest techniques and technologies for fighting cybercrime. The conference also provided a platform for strengthening international cooperation and knowledge-sharing.

In addition to the conference sessions, the Syrian officials held a series of bilateral meetings, including one with the president of INTERPA to discuss future collaboration and the potential membership of Syria’s Rehabilitation and Training Department in the association.

The Ministry of Interior stated that the participation is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the capabilities of its personnel and stay ahead of technological developments in order to better address criminal activities and ensure public safety.

A charity bazaar titled “From People to People” opened Sunday in Damascus, showcasing the work of 24 charitable organizations. The three-day event, held at Massa Plaza Mall in Midan, aims to support local families by promoting the projects of these organizations and their beneficiaries.

Organized by the Union of Charitable Associations in Damascus, the bazaar highlights the key role of charities in empowering vulnerable groups. Haitham Seltaji, a board member of the Union, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering social solidarity and aligning with the Syrian government’s vision for civil society development.

Empowering Rural Women
Mohammad Samer Al-Tarh, executive director of the Syrian Love Foundation, explained that the foundation’s participation is focused on promoting products made by rural women. The foundation also offers training programs to help women from vulnerable backgrounds earn an income and support their families.

Supporting Families of Detainees
Nasser Madi of the Youth Charity Foundation highlighted their work with families of detainees and forcibly disappeared persons, providing free vocational training to help these individuals reintegrate into society.

Health Awareness
The Salam Foundation is offering a health awareness program at the bazaar, focusing on early detection of breast and cervical cancer, as well as diabetes, with expert advice and consultations available for visitors.

Local Crafts and Small Business Support
Open daily from 11 AM to 11 PM, the bazaar features handmade crafts, health products, sweets, and more. Visitors praised the variety of items and emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and empowering women entrepreneurs.

Oil prices rose Monday on optimism that the U.S. government shutdown could soon end, boosting expectations for stronger demand in the world’s largest oil consumer.
According to CNBC, Brent crude futures rose 0.8 percent to settle at $64.16 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 0.95 percent to $60.31.

The improvement came as the U.S. Senate moved to vote on reopening the federal government following a historic 40-day shutdown, restoring confidence in economic activity and energy markets.

Last week, both crude benchmarks fell by about 2 percent amid concerns over a supply glut and rising global inventories, despite the OPEC+ alliance agreeing to a modest production increase in December and suspending any additional hikes in the first quarter of next year.

Gold prices rose on Monday as expectations grew that the U.S. Federal Reserve may cut interest rates in December, following weaker economic data signaling a global slowdown.

Spot gold gained 1.3% to reach $4,053 per ounce, while U.S. gold futures rose 1.2% to $4,060.40 per ounce, according to CNBC.

Other precious metals also saw gains: silver advanced 1.1% to $48.84, platinum increased 1.2% to $1,563.25, and palladium climbed 1.2% to $1,396.75.

Recent U.S. data showed a decline in labor market conditions, with job losses in both government and private sectors, while consumer confidence fell to its lowest level in nearly 3.5 years. The ongoing federal shutdown, now in its 40th day, has heightened pressure on the economy, reinforcing expectations of an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve.

Analysts noted that lower bond yields and a softer dollar continue to drive demand for gold amid global economic uncertainty.

The “IREX 2025” International Forum for Real Estate Development, Engineering, Construction and Contracting will begin Tuesday at the Seven Gates Hotel in Damascus, organized by the Technical Network for Business and Events (TNBE) under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Works and Housing.
More than 1,200 participants from Syria and abroad, including real estate leaders, investors, consulting engineers, construction experts and key decision-makers, are expected to take part in the two-day event.

In a press statement received by SANA, Hussam al-Raees, general manager of TNBE, said the forum serves as a major annual platform to present innovative ideas and visions for Syria’s reconstruction projects, noting that the real estate, engineering and contracting sectors are key pillars in building the country’s future and achieving sustainable development.

The forum will feature over 30 local and international speakers addressing the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in the Syrian market through eight main sessions focusing on investment, legislation, finance, technology, real estate marketing, national architectural identity, sustainability and integrated development.
The program also includes the presentation of the IREX Appreciation Awards, honoring professionals for achievements in contracting, architectural consulting, system design, and real estate investment.

During the event, organizers will also announce the launch of IREX 2026, scheduled to take place at Damascus Fairgrounds from August 6 to 8, 2026, with wide participation from local, Arab and international companies showcasing diverse housing and commercial projects. Thousands of visitors and investors from Syria and abroad are expected to attend.

TNBE, founded in 2005 in Damascus, is a specialized group in media, events and marketing, aiming to empower professionals, decision-makers and experts through knowledge exchange and networking platforms.

The UK Department for Business and Trade has highlighted Syria as a potential investment destination despite ongoing challenges. The report commended the Syrian government’s efforts to stabilize the economy and implement key reforms under difficult conditions.

Syria is classified as a lower-middle-income country, with growing business opportunities. The UK Department noted that British companies have distinct advantages in the market, where British goods and services are well-regarded. The return of many Syrians to their homeland is also contributing to the economic recovery.

Improved Trade Exchange
The report revealed a significant improvement in trade between Syria and the UK, reaching £6 million by the end of Q1 2025, reflecting a positive shift in the trade relationship.

Sectors with Growth Potential
The UK Department identified key sectors in Syria with strong growth potential, particularly in reconstruction and infrastructure. With the economy still reliant on oil, there is a high demand for rebuilding in areas like water, housing, telecommunications, and energy networks. Additionally, there is an increasing need for cybersecurity and physical security services.

Syria’s healthcare sector faces shortages in medical facilities, equipment, and pharmaceuticals, offering opportunities for investment in hospitals, medical supplies, and training. The financial sector also requires significant reforms, creating space for British companies to offer consulting, banking services, and financial planning.

A Market for Medium and Large Enterprises
The report concluded that Syria’s market is suitable for medium and large companies, particularly those with experience in the MENA region, with options for joint ventures, branches, or partnerships with local firms.

Hundreds of residents demonstrated in the Indian capital on Sunday, urging authorities to take immediate steps to tackle air pollution after a heavy smog cloud filled the city’s sky with hazardous fine particles.

According to Agence France-Presse (AFP), protesters gathered near the India Gate monument, where concentrations of PM2.5 particles – linked to cancer and respiratory disease – reached 13 times the World Health Organization’s recommended daily limit.

Police detained several demonstrators as the crowd grew larger through the afternoon while the skyline remained covered in smog. Families joined the rally, with children wearing face masks and carrying placards reading “I miss breathing.”

With a population of about 30 million, New Delhi ranks among the world’s most polluted capitals, its skies each winter shrouded in a toxic haze as cold air traps emissions near the ground. The smog is driven by crop burning, industrial smoke, and vehicle exhaust, creating what experts describe as a deadly seasonal mix.

Istanbul will host an international humanitarian aid summit for Gaza on November 11-12, aimed at addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. The summit will bring together over 400 participants from 48 countries, representing more than 200 organizations.

The summit’s primary objective is to explore long-term solutions to the humanitarian emergency that has plagued Gaza for over two years. Discussions will focus on addressing the widespread destruction of infrastructure and the urgent needs in sectors such as healthcare, education, housing, and other critical areas.

Key figures at the event will include local and international officials, civil society representatives, human rights advocates, as well as academics and journalists. The summit will also feature five workshops, where experts will delve into sustainable, comprehensive approaches to humanitarian aid.

This initiative follows a ceasefire agreement that came into effect on October 10, 2025, following a brutal two-year Israeli military campaign that has resulted in the deaths of over 69,000 Palestinians and left more than 170,000 others injured. Despite the ceasefire, ongoing Israeli violations and restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian aid continue to pose significant challenges for Gaza.

Sevilay Tuncer, Head of Environmental Policy and Urban Planning in Turkey’s Justice and Development Party (AKP), affirmed that the cooperation between Syria and Turkey to restore historic buildings damaged by the practices of the former regime comes within the framework of cultural collaboration between the two countries.

“The aim of this cooperation is not limited to restoring historic buildings, but extends to raising international awareness of the damage caused by the war and inviting the global community to participate in safeguarding this shared cultural heritage.” Tuncer told Anadolu Agency.

Tuncer noted that “a delegation from the party’s Department of Environmental Policy and Urban Planning visited Aleppo last week, holding a series of meetings with Syrian officials to discuss ways of restoring archaeological sites damaged by the bombardment of the former regime.”

“The Turkish delegation met with Aleppo Governor Azzam al-Gharib, and both sides agreed to form a joint technical team to draft restoration plans and provide technical support, covering prominent heritage sites.” She explained.

She stressed that the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) will continue its efforts to restore antiquities in Aleppo and Damascus, adding that Turkey will provide training and technical expertise to Syrian staff, while hosting Syrian experts in Turkey to qualify them according to internationally recognized restoration standards.

MHD Ibrahim

Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Marwan Halabi met Sunday with a British government delegation led by Anne Snow, the UK’s Special Representative for Syria, and Mary Shaw Cledge, Deputy Head of Mission, to discuss strengthening scientific and academic cooperation between Syria and the United Kingdom.

During the meeting, discussions focused on activating the “Chevening” scholarship program, supporting English language centers, advancing digital transformation, and fostering cooperation with the private sector to establish new educational centers.

The British government’s international scholarship program “Chevening” is considered one of the most prestigious grants, attracting students from around the world to pursue postgraduate studies at UK universities. It is dedicated to outstanding individuals with leadership potential.

MHD Ibrahim

With the participation of Syria and several Arab and foreign countries, Qatar inaugurated Sunday the second edition of the “Fareej Art and Design Festival” at Darb Al Saai in Umm Salal.

According to the Qatar News Agency, the festival features more than 120 artists from 21 countries, including Qatar, Syria, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, Jordan, Yemen, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Indonesia, Iran, Korea, Japan, Azerbaijan, India, Australia, Spain, Russia, and the Philippines.

The program includes over 12 art exhibitions and 14 workshops, seven of which are international, covering diverse artistic fields.

Regarding Syria’s participation, Minister of Culture Mohammad Yassin al-Saleh told the Qatar News Agency that Syrian artists are taking part in ceramics, sculpture, and photography. He noted that some Syrian photographers had won awards at the Doha Photography Festival, which concluded earlier today.

Al-Saleh stressed that the international cultural movement spearheaded by Qatar’s Ministry of Culture serves as an inspiring model for advancing the artistic scene. He added that Syrian artists’ participation reflects solidarity with their Qatari counterparts, highlighting the deep-rooted fraternal ties between the two nations, built on shared values of freedom, dignity, and pride.

On cultural cooperation, sl-Saleh revealed that collaboration between the Syrian and Qatari Ministries of Culture has never ceased and continues through small, medium, and large-scale projects across various cultural fields.

In a similar statement, Dr. Ghanem bin Mubarak al-Ali, Undersecretary of Qatar’s Ministry of Culture, explained that the festival aims to promote Qatari art while attracting leading artists and institutions both locally and internationally. He noted that this edition features broad participation from over 20 countries, underscoring its international character and cultural diversity.

MHD Ibrahim

President Ahmad al-Sharaa held an extensive meeting Sunday evening with the Syrian community in Washington, D.C., attended by Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al Shaibani and U.S. Special Envoy to Syria Thomas Barrack.

During the meeting, President al-Sharaa stressed the importance of Syrians abroad maintaining strong ties with their homeland, Syria, and their role in conveying its true image and defending its just causes. He praised their efforts and initiatives as expressions of deep belonging and pride in their nation.

In his remarks, President al-Sharaa recalled the victory achieved nearly eleven months ago, describing it as a shining chapter in the nation’s journey. He noted that the achievements realized during this period, both domestically and internationally, reflect the determination of the state and its people to move forward in reconstruction and overcoming challenges.

For his part, al -Shaibani delivered a brief address thanking the community for its contributions and role in supporting the homeland from abroad, emphasizing that the government gives expatriates great attention and keeps channels of communication open with them.

Ambassador Thomas Barrack also delivered remarks, commending the Syrian community’s role in strengthening relations between Syria and the international community. He affirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting initiatives that facilitate Syria’s reintegration into the regional and international spheres.

Several members of the Syrian community shared their views and positions during the meeting, to which President al-Sharaa responded with transparency, expressing his appreciation for their participation and commitment.

At the conclusion of the meeting, President al-Sharaa urged attendees to keep communication channels open with the Syrian government and to engage positively with national programs launched through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates. He renewed his call for greater commitment and responsibility toward the homeland.

Earlier, President al-Sharaa met with representatives of Syrian – American organizations to review the conditions of Syrians abroad and strengthen communication with them. He praised the contributions of the Syrian community and these organizations in raising awareness of Syrian issues, reinforcing national identity, and deepening ties with the homeland.

President al-Sharaa is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump tomorrow, Monday, at the White House.

MHD Ibrahim

A joint delegation from the Swiss Development Cooperation team, the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), and the Directorate of Vocational and Technical Education at the Ministry of Education visited several vocational and technical schools in Damascus today.

The visit aimed to assess the current state of vocational education, strengthen it, and identify pressing needs.

During the visit, which included the Third Girls’ Commercial Secondary School, Bassam Hamsho Vocational School for Girls, and the Second Industrial Secondary School, the delegation examined both practical and theoretical sections.

According to GIZ, the visit is part of a tripartite initiative involving the German and Swiss governments and the European Union. The project supports vocational and technical education in Syria, aiming to build capacities and develop strategies aligned with labor market needs, in cooperation with the Syrian Ministry of Education.

Lars Bütchler, Regional Education Advisor in the Swiss government and head of the delegation, afirmed to SANA the importance of cooperation in developing vocational education strategies in Syria.

He highlighted the need to improve and expand the dual vocational training system to enhance quality and strengthen ties with the private sector, focusing on unified training standards, improved pedagogical skills, expanded dual education, and updated curricula.

Sawsan Harastani, Director of Vocational and Technical Education at the Ministry of Education, stressed the importance of such visits in assessing the educational reality and setting future plans to identify necessary needs.

She noted that reconstruction begins with vocational education, which must be developed to keep pace with global technological advancements and deliver benefits where they are most needed.

Michael Fahr, Head of the Education and Economy Program in the Swiss government, underscored the importance of forming a steering committee within the Ministry of Education to identify and meet needs. He emphasized focusing on key areas of vocational education, integrating labor market data into educational planning, and encouraging greater participation of companies in the dual education system.

The Swiss Development Cooperation team is part of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the official body of the Swiss government responsible for international cooperation and humanitarian aid. Its mission focuses on poverty reduction, sustainable economic development, and addressing environmental challenges.

GIZ, the German development agency, was established in 2011 through the merger of three German development organizations. It operates in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development, supporting projects in areas such as renewable energy, education, economy, and environment.

MHD Ibrahim

Two men were killed and eight others injured in a traffic accident that occurred on Sunday, November 9, near the village of Kafrata on the Latakia–Aleppo highway.

Local civilians rushed seven of the injured to nearby medical centers, while Syrian Civil Defense emergency teams transported one of the injured women to Latakia University Hospital.

The teams also recovered the victims’ bodies and transferred them to Jisr al-Shughur Hospital, in addition to extinguishing the fire that broke out in both vehicles.

MHD Ibrahim

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa discussed on Sunday with Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), potential areas of cooperation aimed at supporting Syria’s economic development.

The meeting, held at the Fund’s headquarters in Washington, was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, along with senior IMF officials.

The discussions focused on possible frameworks for collaboration between Syria and the IMF to enhance growth and promote economic reform.

President al-Sharaa has arrived in the USA on an official visit today. He is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump on Monday, November 10 , at the White House.

Amer Dhawa