But the absence of significant Western participants, the challenges posed by international sanctions and the lack of a political solution to the seven-year-old conflict point to massive hurdles ahead. Syrian officials say that with the government’s military gains over the past year, it’s now time to focus on rebuilding. Arnous said 270 companies from 29 countries are taking part in this year’s exhibition despite the sanctions imposed on Syrian. “Syria will be rebuilding Syria,” he added. Russian companies face competition from China, which is making serious, if cautious, efforts to snap up reconstruction offers.

Source: National Post October 03, 2018 10:05 UTC