On 24 March 2026, the World Bank Group Paris Office hosted Talal Helali, Chairman of Syria’s Investment Authority, for a focused exchange on Syria’s development and reconstruction prospects, bringing together French companies, public authorities, and institutional partners.

Talal al-Hilali, Head of Syria's Investment Authority and Jakob Kopperud, World Bank Group Director.

Convened by the World Bank Group in partnership with the French‑Syrian Business Council and MEDEF International, the meeting brought together representatives from French ministries, the private sector, and the World Bank Group to discuss investment and procurement opportunities, as well as the conditions for private sector engagement in Syria.

World Bank meeting with Talal al Hilali, Syrian Head of Investment Authority & French companies.

The exchange provided an opportunity for Chairman Helali to outline the reforms currently underway to attract foreign investment, and for the World Bank Group to present how its ongoing procurement reform agenda—alongside IFC investments and advisory and MIGA guarantees—can support credible pathways for private sector participation in Syria’s recovery.

Meeting guests included French companies, public authorities, and institutional partners.