European Official: Success of Transition Phase in Syria Holds Great Importance for Europe
Brussels, Sept 29 (KUNA) -- EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas stated on Tuesday that the success of the transition phase in Syria is of major importance to Europe, noting that Syrians have waited a long time.
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Brussels, September 29 (KUNA) -- The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, affirmed today that the success of the transitional phase in Syria is of great importance to Europe, noting that Syrians have long awaited peace, freedom, and a better future. Speaking at a press conference during an official visit to Damascus, Kallas said the European Union is deploying its political and economic tools to help Syria move forward toward a comprehensive and peaceful transition, emphasizing the EU’s readiness to contribute to building the institutions necessary for sustainable progress in the country. She added that EU-Syria relations have made significant progress, pointing out that the EU acted swiftly to lift economic sanctions imposed on Syria in support of recovery and reconstruction efforts. Kallas explained that the EU has fully reinstated the cooperation agreement between the two sides and held its first political dialogue with Syria last May, noting that she has proposed technical talks this year on political, security, recovery, and reconstruction issues, paving the way for another high-level political dialogue before next summer. Kallas stressed that these discussions will be based on the substantial support the EU already provides to Syria, while emphasizing that aid alone is insufficient for rebuilding the country. She said that foreign and domestic investment require confidence, which in turn depends on security, clear rules, the rule of law, and effective institutions, as well as ensuring equal participation of women in society. She added that the EU is ready to assist in building Syrian institutions, expressing the EU’s hope that Syria will regain its rightful place in the international community. Kallas’s visit to Damascus comes days after she met Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani in New York on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, as part of Syrian diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with international partners. EU-Syria relations have undergone a shift since the fall of the Assad regime, with the EU enhancing its diplomatic presence in Damascus and appointing an ambassador after a 14-year absence, a move reflecting intensified political communication between the two sides. (End) A.R.N./N.S.A.
