News Update 27 August 2008

First Islamic brokerage firm on the way Butemac wins USD 2.8m oil tank contract Syria requests high-tech arms from Russia Syria appoints ambassador to France  Palestinian-Iraqi refugees complete Damascus training course  Sponsoring Syria’s orphans  Eight Syrian Olympians at Beijing  International bank cards for Syrians  MTN continues 3.5G expansion  Smugglers targeted in new crackdown  New tax drive targets rich   MTN continues 3.5G expansion  Suleiman makes landmark visit to Damascus  Syrians stage sit-in for missing loved ones in Lebanon  School kits for Iraqi refugee children  EU Parliament President meets Assad  Assad to visit Moscow  Syrian authorities release dissident

IN THIS MONTH’S EDITION Back in Business Syria has undergone a head-spinning change in its regional and international standing since lending its support to the Doha Accord. But will it lead to better relations with the US? Read...

Something in the Air A booming car market is taking a heavy toll on the air quality in Syria’s major cities.Read...

Clearing the Air Several factors are in need of address if Syria is to improve the quality of its air. Read...

All That Glitters Syrian goldsmiths have long been envied for their talents with the precious yellow stuff. Industry representatives, however, complain tight government restrictions are hampering the sector’s development Read...

Capturing the Essence Photographer Nassouh Zaghlouleh seeks to expose a different, rarely explored side of his two hometowns and their inhabitants. Read...