Syrian Foreign Minister As'ad Al-Shibani and European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas met in Damascus to discuss the future of relations between Syria and the European Union. The meeting focused on developing political and economic cooperation, as well as issues related to sanctions, investments, recovery, and stability. Al-Shibani emphasized the importance of Kallas' visit, calling for the lifting of European sanctions on Syrian state institutions.
Kallas stressed the need to enhance partnership with Syria and mobilize more investments. She also highlighted the importance of promoting a political transition in Syria, including national reconciliation and accountability. The two officials discussed the completion of a high-level political dialogue between Syria and the EU, which began last year. They also explored the possibility of concluding a new partnership agreement to replace the 1977 agreement.
Al-Shibani reiterated Syria's stance on European sanctions, stating that they hinder the country's recovery process. He called for the EU to take additional steps to address this issue. The EU has taken measures to ease and lift some sanctions on Syria, but certain restrictions remain in place, targeting individuals and entities linked to the former regime.
The Syrian Foreign Minister also touched on internal issues, including the country's disarmament and the closure of files related to the former regime. He mentioned Syria's efforts to achieve a comprehensive political transition and integrate the Syrian Democratic Forces into state institutions based on equal citizenship.
Al-Shibani emphasized the interconnection between Syria's stability and European security, stating that Syria's stability is integral to European security. He also urged the EU to exert pressure on Israel to stop its aggressions against Syria, considering statements of concern insufficient.
Kallas announced that the EU has allocated €51 million to support Syria, including €18 million for demining activities. She expressed the EU's commitment to using its political and economic tools to support Syria and called for respect for the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The visit by Kallas and the discussions with Al-Shibani reflect a renewed effort to strengthen ties between Syria and the European Union. The two parties aim to enhance cooperation and explore opportunities for investment and economic growth.
Key points
- The meeting between Al-Shibani and Kallas focused on developing political and economic cooperation between Syria and the EU.
- The EU has allocated €51 million to support Syria, including €18 million for demining activities.
- Al-Shibani called for the lifting of European sanctions on Syrian state institutions, while Kallas emphasized the need for a political transition in Syria.
