First Invitation Program for Syrian Government Officials Following the Resumption of Japan-Syria Bilateral Cooperation

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) conducted an invitation program on urban planning in Japan for Syrian government officials from July 1 to July 8, 2026.
The program aimed to strengthen the capacities of government officials expected to play key roles in Syria’s future reconstruction and sustainable urban development. It was also the first invitation program to Japan organized by JICA for Syrian government officials since the Government of Japan announced the resumption of bilateral cooperation with Syria in December 2025. Participants included officials from both the central and local governments of Syria, who visited the three cities of Kobe, Hiroshima, and Tokyo.
Japan has accumulated extensive knowledge and experience in urban planning, disaster risk reduction, community development, and human resource development through its post-World War II reconstruction as well as recovery efforts following major disasters, including the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and the Great East Japan Earthquake. The program provided an opportunity to share these experiences with Syrian officials and to exchange views on Syria’s future reconstruction and urban development.
During their visits, participants learned about Japan’s post-war and post-disaster reconstruction experiences, as well as approaches to urban planning, disaster management, urban development through public-private partnership (PPP), and solid waste management. Through discussions with Japanese companies, they also gained a better understanding of the role that the private sector can play in Syria’s future reconstruction. The participants actively engaged with host organizations throughout the program, asking questions and expressing strong interest in Japan’s knowledge and experiences. Several participants commented that “there was much more t to learn than could be covered within the limited timeframe.”
A highlight of the program was a business networking event co-organized by JICA and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) on July 6 in Tokyo. 28 Japanese companies participated in the event, providing an opportunity for direct exchanges with the Syrian delegation. Participants from Syria highly appreciated the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Japanese technologies, expertise, and potential areas for future cooperation.
During a meeting with Ms. Mitsui, Senior Vice President of JICA, on the final day of the program, Mr. Muamar, Vice Governor of Damascus Governorate, remarked:
“We learned a great deal from Japan’s reconstruction experience, particularly its approach to human resource development and the establishment of legal and institutional frameworks. While Japan’s experiences cannot be replicated in Syria without adaptation,given the differences in our respective systems and social contexts, the lessons learned through this program will be highly valuable for Syria’s future reconstruction efforts. We also hope to rebuildi and strengthen our cooperative relationship with Japan.”
JICA will continue to support Syria’s sustainable reconstruction and development by sharing Japan’s experience and expertise in reconstruction and development, strengthening human resource development, and fostering networks among relevant stakeholders. Through these efforts, JICA also aims to further deepen the cooperative relationship between Japan and Syria.