Damascus, Syria– European Commissioner for Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica met Wednesday with Syria’s transitional president Ahmad Al-Sharaa in Damascus.
According to Syria’s official news agency (SANA), the meeting was attended by interim Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani and focused on reconstruction efforts and European support during Syria’s transition period.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Al-Shibani, Šuica described the current moment in Syria as “critical after 14 years of pain and displacement.” She said the European Union is backing Syria’s new leadership and transition efforts.
“The EU has lifted its sanctions in support of reconstruction, and we want the rebuilding process to be Syrian-led and Syrian-owned,” Šuica said.
She announced a new €175 million humanitarian aid package for Syria, adding that the EU is working to reintegrate Syria into its southern neighbourhood strategy and encourage the voluntary and safe return of Syrian refugees currently in Europe.
Related: EU’s Lifting of Sanctions on Syria Welcomed Internationally
Šuica also revealed EU plans to mobilize European investment in Syria and deliver long-term development support, noting that concrete reconstruction efforts had already begun over the past six months.
Al-Shibani praised the EU’s decision to lift sanctions, calling it a “courageous step,” and stressed Syria’s commitment to peace and rebuilding.
“Syria is open to dialogue and investment, and is ready to engage with European institutions,” he said. “We are a country of rich cultural and religious diversity, and we should not be reduced to a refugee issue alone.”
Related: EU Sanctions Syrian Militia Leaders, Lifts Most Sanctions on Damascus
Al-Shibani also addressed recent Israeli airstrikes in southern Syria, calling them “violations of sovereignty” that embolden extremist groups and destabilize the country. He urged the international community to enforce the 1974 disengagement agreement with Israel.
The visit comes just weeks after EU foreign ministers voted on May 20 to lift nearly all economic sanctions on Syria, excluding those related to security. A European Commission statement warned that elements of the Assad regime still pose a threat to Syria’s political transition and regional stability.
