Strengthening Syrian-Italian Agricultural Cooperation: Discussions on Nursery Development and Pesticide Analysis Lab in Damascus
Strengthening Syrian-Italian Agricultural Cooperation: Discussions on Nursery Development and Pesticide Analysis Lab in Damascus
In the framework of enhancing technical and agricultural cooperation between Syria and Italy, the Nurseries Committee of the Damascus and Countryside Chamber of Agriculture held an extensive meeting at the Italian Embassy in Damascus. The meeting included His Excellency the Italian Ambassador, Mr. Stefano Ravagnan, and a delegation from the Damascus Countryside Chamber of Agriculture led by Mr. Mohammad Jannan, Chairman of the Chamber, alongside Mr. Hassan Haliwa, Chairman of the Central Committee for Nurseries and Ornamental Plants, Mr. Haitham Zuhair Madmani, member of the Nurseries Committee, Dr. Mohammad Orfali, Chamber Consultant for Commercial Affairs, and Eng. Somer Farfour, Consultant for Organizations and Public Relations.
The meeting addressed the primary challenges facing export movements from the Italian market to activate trade operations. Participants discussed practical steps to overcome these obstacles and revitalize agricultural activities between the two countries, focusing on the development of plant production, particularly ornamental trees, Damask Roses, and Capers.
His Excellency the Ambassador announced ongoing plans to establish a laboratory for chemical pesticide analysis in Syria in cooperation with the Italian CIHEAM Bari Institute. This laboratory aims to enhance residue monitoring capabilities and ensure the quality of agricultural products. On its part, the Italian side expressed readiness to connect with producers from the Italian city of Pistoia to participate in Syrian flower shows and requested a technical list of the types and varieties of ornamental plants required in the Syrian market. The Damascus Countryside Chamber delegation also expressed their desire to invite the Italian Association of Nursery Producers and Exporters to visit Syria to exchange expertise.
The meeting concluded by emphasizing the importance of establishing joint work mechanisms to contribute to the revitalization of agricultural nurseries
7/5/2026