DAMASCUS, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A high-level Saudi delegation led by Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih arrived in the Syrian capital Damascus on Wednesday to launch the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum, in a move seen as a significant step toward restoring and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries, according to the state news agency SANA.

The delegation, dispatched under the direction of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, includes more than 130 businessmen and investors.

According to SANA, the forum aims to explore avenues for bilateral cooperation and facilitate the signing of agreements that support sustainable development and mutual economic interests between the two nations.

As part of the program, the forum will include the launch of a white cement factory project in the Adra Industrial City in the Damascus countryside.

In an interview Wednesday with Saudi-owned Al Arabiya TV, Saudi Ambassador to Syria Faisal bin Saud Al-Mujfel said the forum reflects the kingdom's leadership's commitment to supporting Syria's recovery, institutional rebuilding, and territorial unity.

The Saudi Ministry of Investment stated that the kingdom's investments are part of broader efforts by the kingdom to strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to Syria's economic stabilization and long-term recovery.

On Tuesday, Syrian interim leader Ahmad al-Sharaa received a separate delegation of Saudi business leaders, including ACWA Power Chairman Mohammad Abunayyan and Al Muhaidib Group Chairman Suleiman al-Muhaidib, to discuss deepening economic and investment cooperation.

The Saudi Embassy in Damascus also announced that travel permits for businesspeople from both countries are now available, enabling mutual visits and exploration of investment opportunities across various sectors.