Cultural, scientific and technical cooperation

University cooperation is the main area of our cooperation with Syria, as France is Syria’s leading partner in this sector. Eventually, 20% of Syria’s university instructors will have been trained in France. France is the second-leading host country for Syrian students: there are more than 3,000 students in France, mostly in Masters programmes and in scientific disciplines.

In the area of science, France has a special relationship in archaeology (Syria’s leading partner) and in humanities and social studies.

Moreover, Syria boasts a solid French-speaking tradition, in particular in certain Christian milieus and/or with Syria’s elite. French has been growing significantly since 2003, when it became the second language required in public education.

Our cultural cooperation in Syria is structured mainly around the Centre culturel français de Damas (CCF). Cultural activities fit into the scheme of influence in terms of the elite and future elite, by encouraging debates on ideas.

Our actions in the field of administrative reform focus on support for the INA project (in cooperation with ENA).

Updated on 17.12.08