August 2010Issue No. 64
Changing Seasons
Agriculture was born on the fertile plains of Syria. Today, it remains a key economic pillar, representing around 20 percent of the country's GDP and 19 percent of its workforce. However, drought and the easing of fuel subsidies are taking a heavy toll on farmers. In this month's Focus section, Syria Today looks at the world's oldest agricultural sector and the hardship facing those toiling in it.
Focus on: Tourism
Incredible India. Malaysia, truly Asia. Nothing compares to Egypt. And Syria? As tourism emerges as a key pillar in the country’s post-oil economy, Syria Today looks at the tourism industry and the Syrian brand. Or rather the lack of one. While advertising on tourism has risen significantly in recent years, Syria lacks a clear brand – a set of images, moods, expectations and feelings created among potential foreign visitors. More than simply drawing in visitors from around the globe, a focused branding strategy could help lift Syria’s profile on the international stage, challenging the negative media-driven images foreigners all too often associate with the country and the region in general.
The New Road to Damascus
Branding Syria
More Than Just Islam and Spices
Good Things Come in Small Packages
Q&A: Ali Esmaiel
Chief executive officer of the Aga Khan Cultural Services in Syria
Cradle of Christianity
Free Zone revenues up SYP 300m (USD 6.4m) over last year: Revenue figures released for the industrial districts from the first six months of 2010.
Eleventh five-year plan focused on investments: PM Otri said the plan includes investment projects valued at SYP 4bn (USD 85m) with a special focus on Dier ez-Zor governorate.
Campaign to preserve oral heritage announced: The ministry of culture's folklore department will document Syria's story-telling tradition.
Oxford Business Group report released: The study of Syria's economy looks at the role of public-private partnerships in the oil industry and key transport projects.
Emirates Telecom Corp. bids to become Syria's third mobile carrier: The company is the bigger of two mobile operators in the UAE.
New law reorganises telecoms: The sector now contributes to 5 percent of GDP.
Man age 125 dies in Hassakeh: He left behind 187 children and grandchildren.
Homs archaeologocal find proves link between Mesopotamia, Mediterranean and Nile Valley: The dig indicates that the Katana Kingdom had important international-trade ties.
Third mobile phone operater to enter the market: The firm will join carriers Syriatel and MTN Syria.
Regional Special Olympics to be hosted in Syria: 2,500 athletes from 23 countries will participate in the games.
Authorities confiscate drugs: About two million illegal pills were smuggled into Syria from Lebanon.
Venezuela defends flights to Syria: The US c riticised the flights between Caracas, Damascus and Tehran.
Syrian and Iranian officials meet in Tehran: Deputy Prime Minister for economic affairs Abdullah al-Dardari led the delegation.
Ancient coins confiscated in Hama: Police uncovered the 245 coins in an abandoned car.
Tourist visits up in 2010: The figure increased 56 percent during the first seven months of the year.
The word is out: Syria is the new ‘it’ travel destination.
