Experts at the Middle East Research Institute (MERI) forum in Erbil called for stronger regional cooperation to promote peace and economic growth. The panel, “The Levant Beyond Conflict: Strategies for Recovery and Reintegration,” brought together leading Arab thinkers and policy experts.
Said al-Masri, former Jordanian agriculture minister, emphasized that Jordan must pursue Levant regional cooperationwith neighboring countries. He stressed dialogue as essential for reconciliation and proposed creating an integrated market inviting the European Union to enhance economic ties.
Makram Ouaiss, director of the Lebanese Center for Policy Studies, warned that Lebanon suffers from internal divisions and foreign pressures. He said instability deters investment, slows growth, and drives skilled workers abroad. Ouaiss urged governments to address refugee needs, improve governance, and invest in education to retain talent.
Sherwan Yousif from Syria’s DeFacto Dialogue Platform highlighted opportunities for dialogue after Assad’s weakening. He stressed decentralized governance and power-sharing among Syrian communities to strengthen stability. Agreements between Kurdish-led forces and interim authorities show progress in reducing intercommunal tensions.
Ammar Kahf from the Omran Center for Strategic Studies noted that dismantling armed groups and securing borders helps Syria avoid threatening neighbors. He also emphasized coordinating the safe return of refugees.
Panelists agreed that challenges like governance gaps, refugee crises, and economic stagnation require collective action. Dialogue, cooperation, and regional coordination are essential to unlock peace and prosperity.