World

EU Doubles Down on Syria: How Brussels Aims to Shape Recovery and Peace

EU reaffirms support for Syria‘s recovery, pushes for Syrian-led, peaceful transition.

September 24, 2025, 11:49 AM

A low-angle view of the flags of European Union member states flying on flagpoles in front of the modern facade of the European Parliament building in Brussels, Belgium.

A low-angle view of European flags flying proudly in front of the European Parliament building in Brussels, a symbol of European unity and cooperation. By Miami Daily Life / MiamiDaily.Life.

Executive Summary

The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Syria’s economic recovery, addressing humanitarian needs, and fostering political dialogue.

The EU emphasizes its support for a Syrian-led, inclusive, and peaceful transition process free from foreign interference.

These commitments were reiterated during high-level meetings between Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and top EU officials, including European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

The Story So Far

The European Union maintains a consistent diplomatic approach towards Syria, centered on facilitating a Syrian-led, inclusive, and peaceful political transition free from foreign interference. This long-standing commitment also encompasses addressing urgent humanitarian needs and supporting the country’s economic and social recovery, with recent high-level engagements at the United Nations General Assembly underscoring the bloc’s sustained effort to achieve comprehensive stability.

Why This Matters

The European Union’s reaffirmed commitment to Syria’s economic recovery and a Syrian-led, inclusive political transition, evidenced by high-level diplomatic engagements, signals a continued, long-term focus on the country’s stability and humanitarian needs. This emphasis on a process free from foreign interference suggests the EU is positioning itself as a key player in shaping Syria’s post-conflict future, potentially influencing both internal political dynamics and broader international efforts.

Who Thinks What?

The European Union, through its Chargé d’Affaires Michael Ohnmacht, is committed to continuing political dialogue, addressing urgent humanitarian needs, and aiding Syria’s economic and social recovery, emphasizing a transition free from foreign interference.

European Council President António Costa reiterated the European Union’s backing for a genuine, inclusive, and peaceful Syrian-led transition process, highlighting the objective of ensuring this process remains free from detrimental foreign interference.

The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Syria’s economic recovery and fostering a political dialogue, with officials reiterating calls for a Syrian-led, inclusive, and peaceful transition. This pledge comes as EU representatives engaged with Syrian counterparts on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week.

EU Officials Express Support

Michael Ohnmacht, the EU’s Chargé d’Affaires to Syria, emphasized the bloc’s sustained support for Syria’s future on Wednesday. Writing on X, Ohnmacht stated that the EU is committed to continuing political dialogue, addressing urgent humanitarian needs, and aiding the country’s economic and social recovery. He stressed the importance of a transition free from any foreign interference.

High-Level Meetings in New York

These declarations followed a meeting on Tuesday between Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and high-ranking EU officials, including European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani was also present during the discussions in New York.

Following the encounter, President Costa echoed Ohnmacht’s sentiments, reiterating the European Union’s backing for a “genuine, inclusive, and peaceful Syrian-led transition process.” He highlighted the shared objective of ensuring this process remains free from detrimental foreign interference.

Continued Engagement

The recent statements and high-level engagements underscore the European Union’s consistent diplomatic approach towards Syria. The bloc continues to prioritize a comprehensive solution that addresses both the immediate humanitarian challenges and the long-term political and economic stability of the nation.