The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, announced on Monday that the bloc’s top diplomat for Syria has been tasked with engaging the new Syrian government in Damascus. Speaking ahead of the EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Kallas emphasized the importance of establishing initial contacts with the new leadership in Syria.
“I’ve tasked the European top diplomat in Syria to go to Damascus to make contacts with the new government and people there,” Kallas stated during her doorstep remarks. She further clarified that the diplomat would begin the engagement process that same day.
Kallas also highlighted the significance of aligning regional and international stakeholders, referencing discussions held on Saturday in Jordan with Arab nations, Türkiye, and the United States. “It’s very important that regional and international actors share the same vision for a stable, peaceful Syria with an inclusive government,” she noted.
EU Ministers to Deliberate on Engagement Strategy
The EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels is expected to explore the scope and level of engagement with Syria’s new leadership. Discussions will likely address the European Union’s priorities for peace, stability, and territorial integrity in Syria, as well as potential pathways for the return of Syrian refugees.
Spain Strengthens Diplomatic Presence in Damascus
Spain has also announced steps to bolster its diplomatic presence in Damascus. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares revealed that the chargé d’affaires, previously stationed in Beirut for security reasons, will return to Syria this week. Additionally, a special envoy will be appointed to assist the embassy in engaging with the new Syrian authorities.
“I announce that this very week, we intend to send Spain’s chargé d’affaires back to Damascus,” Albares said. The envoy’s role will involve facilitating communication with Syrian officials while ensuring clear red lines are maintained, particularly regarding Syria’s peaceful future and territorial integrity.
Albares stressed that these engagements are preliminary and aimed at fostering dialogue to promote stability in Syria. “These new contacts must be understood as very preliminary contacts. Above all, they are meant to convey clear red lines: the need for Syria’s future to be a peaceful one,” he explained.
Refugee Repatriation Under Discussion
The return of millions of Syrian refugees will also be a critical agenda item for the EU ministers. Many refugees currently reside in Türkiye, Lebanon, Jordan, and Europe. Albares reiterated Spain’s commitment to assisting Syria in achieving stability and maintaining its territorial integrity, ensuring that no regions remain under the control of armed groups.
A Step Toward Regional Stability
The European Union’s decision to re-establish contacts with Syria’s leadership signals a cautious but significant shift in its approach to the war-torn nation. As EU officials deliberate on their engagement strategy, maintaining a balance between dialogue and accountability will be critical in ensuring Syria’s path to peace and stability.
This latest development underscores the EU’s broader commitment to addressing the humanitarian and political crises in Syria through coordinated international efforts.
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