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EU Leaders Visit Damascus, Pledge Support for Syria's Post-War Recovery

European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus, affirming the EU's strong commitment to the country's recovery and reconstruction. The visit signals a new diplomatic engagement following the fall of the Assad regime, with leaders expressing hope for Syria's future. Their trip to Damascus came immediately after participating in the inaugural EU-Jordan Summit, where they met with King Abdullah II to reinforce that strategic partnership. The European leaders' regional tour will continue in Beirut for meetings with Lebanese President Michel Aoun.

Key Points: EU Leaders Meet Syrian President, Pledge Reconstruction Support

  • EU pledges support for Syria's recovery
  • Leaders meet new President al-Sharaa in Damascus
  • Visit follows EU-Jordan Summit with King Abdullah II
  • Focus on deepening political and economic ties
  • Next stop is Beirut to meet President Aoun
2 min read

EU leaders meet Syrian President al-Sharaa in Damascus

European Council President Antonio Costa and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen meet President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus, affirming EU commitment to Syria's recovery.

"After many years of war and suffering, the fall of the Assad regime finally offered some hope to the Syrian people. - Antonio Costa"

Damascus, Jan 9

European Council President Antonio Costa and European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen on Friday called on Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, asserting that The EU remains strongly committed to Syria's recovery, reconstruction and civil peace.

"In Damascus to meet President Al-Sharaa, together with President Ursula von der Leyen. After many years of war and suffering, the fall of the Assad regime finally offered some hope to the Syrian people. We are here today to show the EU's continued support to Syria. There is still a long way ahead but you have already taken the first steps," Antonio Costa posted on X after meeting Ahmed al-Sharaa.

The EU also pledged to deepen political ties and economic engagement with the war-torn country.

"In Damascus today with EU Council President. After decades of fear and silence, Syrians began a long journey toward hope and renewal. Europe will do everything it can to support Syria's recovery and reconstruction," said Ursula von der Leyen.

Both European leaders arrived in Damascus after participating in the first-ever EU-Jordan Summit, reaffirming the EU's commitment to Jordan as a key strategic partner in the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

On Thursday, Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen met King Abdullah II as the three leaders took stock of the implementation of the Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership, signed one year ago, and set the priorities for the future.

"At a time of growing geopolitical challenges, the EU and Jordan stand side by side. Because this is what friends do," the EU chief posted on X.

Later today, the two European leaders will travel to Beirut to meet with President Aoun and further strengthen the EU-Lebanon partnership, focusing on prosperity, security and stability.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Reconstruction is important, but where is the accountability for the war crimes? The EU seems eager for economic engagement, but the people need truth and reconciliation first. This feels like putting business before human rights.
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Aman W
From an Indian perspective, lasting peace in the Middle East is crucial for global stability. Hope this EU move brings real development to Syria and reduces refugee crises that affect the whole world. 🤞
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Sarah B
Interesting timing. The EU is strengthening ties with Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon all at once. This looks like a strategic push for influence in the region, especially with other global powers already active there. Realpolitik in action.
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Karthik V
As someone who has seen conflict, I wish the Syrian people all the best in their recovery. But the EU must ensure aid reaches the common people, not just the elites. Corruption can ruin the best intentions.
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Nikhil C
Good step. Stability in West Asia is good for India too—our energy security and diaspora safety are linked to it. Hope India also engages constructively for regional peace. Jai Hind!

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