EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council president Antonio Costa discussed a new chapter in bilateral relations with Syria in Damascus with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shaara.
The European Union has been eager to renew bilateral relations with the Syria since the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. Since then, the EU has reaffirmed a commitment to stand with the Syrian people and to support a peaceful and inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition to help build a better future for all Syrians.
The EU lifted all economic sanctions on Syria in 2025, and has mobilised more than €424 million for the country, including a €175 million package to support Syria’s socio-economic recovery and institution-building, as well as to promote transitional justice, accountability and human rights.
The new chapter in bilateral relations has focused around three pillars:
- A new political partnership supporting a peaceful and inclusive transition and reconciliation within Syria, and the country’s regional re-integration;
- Enhanced trade and economic cooperation, including through Syria’s involvement in initiatives under the Pact for the Mediterranean, backed by a substantial financial package for 2026 and 2027 to enable socio-economic recovery, reconstruction and facilitation of private investment;
- Financial support package of around €620 million for 2026 and 2027, which includes humanitarian aid, early recovery support and bilateral support.
“We know that the path to reconciliation and recovery is challenging,” said Ms von der Leyen: “Because healing, rebuilding lives and creating trust in institutions takes time. We are here today to work for Syria and for all Syrians. To deliver on the goal of a new peaceful, inclusive, and safe Syria.”
She added that the path to sustainable reconciliation and reconstruction “needs to be underpinned by effective reforms, which the EU will continue to support.”
The EU executive said that stepping up related efforts and Syria’s involvement in initiatives under the E’s ‘Pact for the Mediterranean’ is a key element for a successful inclusive transition and its future integration into the regional and global economy.
