Damascus - Damascene Rose is one of the most important crops in al Kalamoun region some 60 km northeast of Damascus, planted in al Marah village 800 years ago...it is also the national rose of the Syrian Arab Republic, and Ministry of Tourism uses it as a logo.
The agriculture department in Damascus Countryside said it gave special care for the fields of Damascene rose because of its economic importance, so it reclaims the largest possible area to expand planting this rose and offering all the possible facility.
"The Ministry of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform encourages this plant, particularly in al Mrah village where it reclaimed 200 Hectares, 50 of which were planted with this rose as part of the project of the Green Belt." Director of Agriculture in Damascus Countryside Ali Saadat said in a statement to SANA.
Head of Damascene Rose Association Ameen al-Bitar said that the Association was established in 2007 with 275 members, aiming at reviving the planting of the Damascene rose, increasing the flower-planted areas and supporting it as a plant that gives many products.
The Damascene Rose has a lot of medical uses since its aromatic oil is used to stop hemorrhage and other diseases.
By Ismael Al Kazhali / Mazen Eyon
© SANA (Syria Arab News Agency) 2009
