Damascus Trade Fair: Syrian government seeks international business amid fighting

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02:04

The Syrian government meanwhile is hoping to send a message that war is coming to an end with a large business fair. As Fred Pleitgen reports, it's trying rebuild and attract foreign business to Syria.

Even as the airstrikes indicate an offensive on the last major rebel held area may be imminent, the Syrian government is inviting international businesses back to the country. Putting on its largest trade fair since the civil war started. The organizers say representatives from almost 50 countries are attending.

BISHER RIYAD YAZIGI SYRIAN TOURISM MINISTER "I think it will be attractive for all people around the world to see Syria, to see the real Syria."

Many of the companies showing off their products come from nations supporting the Assad government - like Russia, and Iran.

SHAHRAM ALAEI SABA BATTERY, IRAN "We're going to have long term cooperation with this country and businessmen in Syria. Now, this is a good opportunity for us."

The Syrian army - backed by Russia and Iran - has been making massive territorial gains. Cornering the rebels in Idlib province in the north - on the brink of defeat.

FRED PLEITGEN DAMASCUS "The Syrian government is trying to send a clear message with this trade fair: the war is coming to an end, its forces are winning, and now they are getting ready to move into a new phase of this conflict."

And that new phase is reconstruction - of the many destroyed towns and cities in the country.

But with Bashar Assad and his Russian and Iranian allies accused of war crimes - which they deny - many western countries and companies are reluctant to get involved. From Syriann officials - defiance.

FARES SHAHABI SYRIAN FEDERATION OF INDUSTRY "Things are going ahead, and we are very optimistic. We want international companies to come and invest in this country. It's safe, it's secure."

While the Damascus trade fair is a bright spot for Syria's government - there seems no doubt the road to reconstruction will be long and difficult for this war torn country. FRED PLEITGEN, DAMASCUS.