``` Developing Rural Areas in Syria 2025: The Role of **Sustainable Agriculture** in **Reconstruction** Syria is suffering from the effects of a devastating war, which has left its clear marks on the **agricultural sector**, a fundamental pillar of the national economy. However, **reconstruction** requires a comprehensive approach, based on sustainable **rural development**, and especially on the role of **sustainable agriculture** in achieving this goal. This article will address the role of **sustainable agriculture** in **developing rural areas** by 2025, focusing on **supporting farmers** and promoting **agriculture in Syria**. The Importance of **Sustainable Agriculture** in Syria's **Reconstruction** **Sustainable agriculture** is the cornerstone of ensuring food security and economic development in Syria. It is not limited to increasing production only, but also includes preserving natural resources, enhancing resilience to climate change, and creating sustainable job opportunities in rural areas. [Image: A picture of a Syrian farmer using modern and sustainable agricultural techniques] Challenges Facing **Agriculture in Syria** * Lack of funding and investment in the **agricultural sector**. * Deterioration of agricultural infrastructure (dams, irrigation canals). * Water scarcity and the effects of climate change. * Insecurity and instability in some areas. * Migration of agricultural labor. The Role of **Supporting Farmers** in Achieving **Sustainable Agriculture** **Supporting farmers** is crucial to achieving the goals of **sustainable agriculture** in Syria. This support includes providing training and technical advice, providing affordable financing, ensuring access to markets, and providing high-quality seeds and fertilizers. [Video: A short video showcasing successful experiences of supporting farmers in Syria] Practical Examples of **Supporting Farmers**: 1. Providing training programs on **sustainable agriculture**, including modern irrigation techniques, soil management, and pest control. 2. Providing affordable loans to farmers to purchase equipment and agricultural inputs. 3. Establishing agricultural cooperatives to enhance bargaining power with buyers and improve marketing. 4. Providing agricultural insurance to protect farmers from risks. Comprehensive **Rural Development**: Agriculture as a Central Axis **Rural development** is not limited to **agriculture** only, but also includes developing infrastructure (roads, electricity, water), health and educational services, and promoting employment opportunities in non-agricultural sectors. However, **agriculture** remains the main engine of economic growth in rural areas and contributes significantly to **reconstruction**. A study conducted by Afaq Al-Aqar Academy, in cooperation with agricultural experts, emphasized the importance of integrating sustainable urban planning with **rural development** projects. The study indicated that developing infrastructure in rural areas contributes to attracting investments and improving the standard of living of the population. {Link: Link to the Afaq Al-Aqar Academy study} [Image: A graph illustrating the relationship between rural development and economic growth] The Role of **Local Development** in **Developing Rural Areas** **Local development** plays a crucial role in **developing rural areas**. It relies on the participation of local communities in identifying their needs and developing their own development plans. **Local development** includes empowering women and youth, promoting good governance, and promoting cooperation between the public and private sectors. Examples of Successful **Local Development**: * Small-scale irrigation projects managed by local communities. * Rural tourism projects that contribute to creating job opportunities. * Infrastructure improvement projects implemented with the participation of the local community. Proposed Action Plan for **Developing Rural Areas in Syria** by 2025 | Stage | Objectives | Strategies | | :-------------------- | :----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Stage One (2023-2024) | Rehabilitate agricultural infrastructure, and provide direct support to farmers | Provide affordable loans, train farmers in modern agricultural methods, provide improved seeds | | Stage Two (2024-2025) | Diversify sources of income in rural areas, and promote **local development** | Develop rural tourism projects, support small and medium enterprises, encourage agricultural cooperatives | The success of this plan depends on providing sufficient funding, political will, and effective partnership between the government, international organizations, and the private sector. Also, the role of **supporting farmers** is not limited to material assistance but also includes providing the necessary technical and advisory support. [Image: A picture showing a meeting between government officials and farmers] > "It is impossible to achieve **reconstruction** in Syria without paying attention to **sustainable agriculture** and **rural development**. **Agriculture** is the engine of economic growth and food security" – *Agricultural expert from Afaq Al-Aqar Academy* Afaq Al-Aqar Academy provides its extensive expertise in the field of **real estate development** and **urban planning** to support **developing rural areas**. The Academy has conducted several studies on best practices in this field, and its experts have provided advice to many international and governmental organizations. {Link: Afaq Al-Aqar Academy website} (Call to Action:) Would you like to know more about investment opportunities in the **agricultural sector** in Syria? Contact us today! 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