Chairman of the Syrian-Scandinavian Council for Development and Investment
“We don’t sell illusions… We are building a new economy that is not ashamed of a painful past
“Those who miss the chance to build because they didn’t find the perfect land, will regret it the day all cities are built around them.”
— Francis Bacon
In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Ali Meamar, a Syrian-Swedish businessman based in Europe, recipient of the 2021 King of Sweden’s Entrepreneur Award, and Chairman of the Syrian-Scandinavian Council for Development and Investment.
A man who chooses realism over slogans, and action over promises, Meamar leads one of the most serious initiatives aimed at rebuilding trust between the Syrian diaspora and their homeland.
– To begin with, how do you explain the idea of the Syrian-Scandinavian Council? Why was its founding a necessity?
Ali Meamar:
The Council is not just an organizational or economic body. It was created as a response to a significant void we Syrians in Europe have long felt. There is talent, expertise, and ready-to-launch projects—but there was no institutional bridge to connect us with Syria in a transparent and actionable way.
We needed an entity that doesn’t speak in the name of politics, but in the language of reality and the future. A foundation that invests in people before property, and in trust before real estate. That’s why the Council was founded as a developmental, investment, and cultural platform addressing both the state and society.
What is your role within the Council?
Ali Meamar:
As Chairman of the Board, my primary responsibility is to ensure that the Council moves forward strategically and realistically, and that all decisions are built on data and thorough studies.
I also work on building trust with stakeholders inside and outside Syria, and on opening doors for serious businesspeople seeking real opportunities within a clear legal and investment environment.
– As the Council’s leader, what is the strategy guiding your vision?
Ali Meamar:
Our work is grounded in three essential pillars:
- Professionalism and structure:
No space for randomness. Every step is calculated, every file is based on real data and measurable indicators. - Transparency and trust:
We never promise investors what we can’t deliver. And we approach official institutions with full clarity of vision. - Smart gradualism:
We’re not aiming for an overnight economic revolution. We start with mid-scale, feasible projects that can gradually redefine the relationship between expatriate capital and the Syrian economy.
– You recently led an official visit to Damascus. What was your impression of the government’s response?
Ali Meamar:
The visit was pivotal. We met with the Ministries of Economy, Internal Trade, Information, and the Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
We witnessed genuine understanding—and at times, even positive surprise—that Syrians abroad are organizing at this level of professionalism.
We are not asking for privileges. We’re asking for an enabling environment: transparency, and partnership. And yes, we’ve started to feel real responsiveness—especially regarding the Council’s projects, which are being launched one by one.
Tell us about the upcoming investment exhibition. Why is it significant?
Ali Meamar:
This exhibition is not just a business event. It’s a statement of intent.
We want to redefine investment in Syria, to present a new vision: that Syria is not merely a “land of opportunity”, but a land of mutual trust—if the relationship between the public and private sectors is properly organized.
The exhibition will be a space where local and international investors meet, and where expatriates return as participants, not just visitors. We aim to turn it into permanent infrastructure, not a short-lived event.
– You received the King of Sweden’s Entrepreneur Award. What does this mean to you in the Syrian context?
Ali Meamar:
It’s not just a personal badge of honor—it’s proof that Syrians can succeed anywhere, if given a fair chance.
My award-winning project in Sweden was built on creating real job opportunities for refugees, not through pity, but through investing in their potential.
What I want to bring to Syria is the same mindset:
We want to empower Syrians to be producers, not passive recipients of aid or orders.
– What are your true aspirations through this Council?
Ali Meamar:
I aspire for the Council to be a genuine umbrella for serious Syrians abroad, and a respected gateway for safe and effective engagement back home.
We aim to build an economy that does not deny its past, but learns from it.
Not a repeat of what came before—but a system that places people before politics, and planning before passion.
A final word to Syrians, inside and abroad?
Ali Meamar:
Don’t wait for perfect conditions to return. Look for a “possible space”—and begin.
Don’t build on illusions. But never stop trying.
Those who don’t take part in building their country will be left watching others build illusions around them.