WATCH: Damascus under reconstruction for upcoming international fair
This has been the largest construction project for the city since the Syrian civil war broke out more than six years ago.
By REUTERSUpdated: AUGUST 7, 2017 03:16Damascus under reconstruction for upcoming international fair (CCTV via Reuters)
Major streets and buildings in Damascus have been undergoing renovation and reconstruction in recent weeks as the Syrian capital gears up to host the 59th Damascus International Fair later this month.In the city center, construction crews have been working to widen several main roads and renovate old buildings and landmarks, including the Damascus Sword Statue in Umayyad Square.This has been the largest construction project for the city since the Syrian civil war broke out more than six years ago.The Damascus International Fair, the Syrian economy's window to the world, is brought back to life again after several years of forced absence due to the civil war inflicted upon the country. The last edition was held in 2011.This year's fair will be held on Aug 17-26.As the reconstruction continues in the city center, the Syrian government forces and opposition have reportedly been engaged in fighting over the past two days, with Syrian government aircraft bombarding opposition-held areas and opposition forces retaliating with rocket shells.