The Global Policy Institute (IGP) at Columbia University hosted a dialogue seminar bringing together Syrian Minister of Information Hamza al-Mustafa with the institute’s students.

The discussion was moderated by Lisa Anderson, former dean of the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), alongside John Feiner, distinguished fellow at the Carnegie Foundation and former National Security Advisor in President Joe Biden’s administration.

During the seminar, the Syrian Minister of Information spoke about the challenges of the new phase in Syria and rebuilding the state after the war, emphasizing that the new government inherited weak institutions and exhausted bureaucracy, which hinder reconstruction efforts.

The minister stressed the importance of restoring citizens’ trust and engaging in comprehensive civil dialogue, noting that one of the Syrian government’s priorities is to establish a professional and objective media based on transparency.

On the external front, the minister highlighted the government’s efforts to reintegrate Syria into its regional and international environment, calling on the international community to support reconstruction and national reconciliation efforts.

At the conclusion of the meeting, John Feiner expressed optimism about Syria’s future, emphasizing the importance of the historic moment it is experiencing, saying: “Change is not always a straight path to success, but everyone is concerned with Syria’s success.”