Syrian Foreign Ministry Holds Talks with European Council Delegation
The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has hosted an extensive dialogue session with a delegation from the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR). The meeting is part of Damascus’s broader efforts to strengthen political dialogue and explore new avenues for economic and investment cooperation.
The session was attended by the Director of the European Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Sally Shobat, and the Director of the Diplomatic Institute, Yasser Al-Jundi, alongside the visiting European delegation.
Discussions during the session were focused on identifying pathways to develop political dialogue aimed at establishing a long-term strategic partnership between the two sides. The dialogue covered vital economic topics, most notably the identification and mitigation of obstacles currently hindering investment activities. Furthermore, the participants explored the potential to leverage Syria’s position in regional connectivity projects, particularly within the energy and trade sectors. Support for national economic recovery efforts and the development of national institutional capacities were also addressed.
In a related context, the meeting featured a review of various humanitarian, human rights, and political dossiers. These included discussions on transitional justice, the status of missing persons, and efforts to establish favorable conditions for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of Syrian refugees to their homes. The two sides also coordinated their respective positions on rapid regional developments, with a specific focus on the implications of ongoing Israeli strikes on the regional situation.
Both parties agreed on the importance of expanding direct communication channels between Syrian national institutions and European research centers and think tanks. This cooperation is intended to enhance mutual understanding and support the continuity of constructive dialogue regarding various regional and international issues of common concern.
These discussions occur at a time when Damascus is actively seeking to improve its diplomatic openness and reactivate its relations with Western non-governmental organizations and research institutions. Through these efforts, Syria aims to address the challenges posed by current national and regional conditions and to open new prospects for economic and political cooperation. These steps underscore the Syrian side’s commitment to conveying its perspective on issues such as the return of refugees and economic recovery to political and research stakeholders in Europe.
Source: Syria Focus Arabic
