Dura Municipality and the Dura Expatriates Forum Lay the Foundations for a Development Partnership Harnessing the Expertise of the Diaspora
The Municipality of Dura held a consultative meeting via video conference with members of the Dura Expatriates Forum, bringing together professionals and talented members of the city residing in several countries, as well as representatives of the Youth Council, the Dura Martyrs Cultural Center, and local institutions. The meeting focused on exploring avenues for cooperation, leveraging the expertise of Dura’s sons and daughters abroad to serve their hometown, and strengthening the city’s presence and development.
The meeting was attended by Dura Mayor Eng. Muhannad Amr; Municipal Council Member Dr. Hikmat Hajja; Youth Council President Ahmad Amaireh; Eng. Mohammad Abu Atwan, representing the Dura Martyrs Cultural Center; Forum President Dr. Nabil Abu Zneid; and a number of Dura residents abroad who are members of the Forum.
The Mayor emphasized that Dura’s sons and daughters abroad are an integral part of the city and that their expertise, skills, and international connections represent a valuable resource for supporting its development. He stressed the importance of moving beyond social communication toward a structured partnership based on sustainable initiatives and projects that have a tangible impact on citizens’ lives.
Amr outlined the municipality’s key priorities, including empowering youth, children, and women; supporting persons with disabilities; developing the Youth Council and Children’s Council; promoting entrepreneurship and establishing a business incubator; supporting the education and healthcare sectors; revitalizing the Old Town; and expanding partnerships with the private sector and international relations.
For his part, Forum President Dr. Nabil Abu Zneid, along with other Forum members, presented a number of the Forum’s previous initiatives and activities. He emphasized that the Forum’s mission goes beyond providing assistance to strengthening communication and solidarity, as well as facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise among the people of Dura at home and abroad.
Participants discussed establishing a professional network for Dura’s professionals and experts abroad, bringing together doctors, engineers, lawyers, academics, businesspeople, and specialists. The network would help leverage their expertise in areas such as consultancy, training, relationship-building, and opening new avenues for cooperation with international institutions.
The meeting also addressed the organization of regular meetings, holding a larger gathering for Dura’s residents abroad, and developing a project to document the city’s history, heritage, Old Town, and prominent figures. Participants also proposed launching a cultural and media program featuring Dura’s residents abroad, showcasing their experiences and success stories while strengthening the connection between younger generations and their hometown.
The participants agreed to continue coordination and work on developing a joint plan that prioritizes projects in youth development, education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and social initiatives.
The Municipality of Dura called on all its sons and daughters abroad to join this effort and contribute their ideas, expertise, and initiatives. Contributing to the city’s advancement is not limited to financial support; it can begin with an idea, expertise, a connection, or an opportunity that can create a genuine and lasting impact.
Dura is proud of its sons and daughters wherever they may be, and it opens its doors to every mind, every expertise, and every sincere hand committed to helping build its future.
