BRUSSELS, Dec 8 (KUNA) - The European Union on Monday reaffirmed its support for Syria's transitional phase, welcoming the authorities' commitment to a peaceful and inclusive process aimed at rebuilding the state on new foundations.
It said the end of the Assad regime marked a historic opportunity for Syrians to begin a political transition, noting it has backed Syria throughout this period, including by suspending major economic sanctions in February and fully lifting them in May to support recovery efforts.
During the Brussels IX Conference on Syria, the EU and its Member States pledged EUR 3.4 billion, maintaining their role as the largest donor for humanitarian, social and economic needs in Syria and the region.
The statement highlighted the first-ever "Day of Dialogue" held inside Syria with broad civil society participation, aimed at identifying priority areas for support, adding that progress since December 2024 - including the Constitutional Declaration and the creation of institutions for transitional justice and missing persons - represents an important step in consolidating the new phase.
The EU stressed the importance of continued cooperation with the United Nations to translate commitments into concrete action, noting that humanitarian access and civilian protection remain essential as 16.5 million Syrians are in need.
It also voiced concern over recurring violence since March, underscoring that peace cannot be achieved without national dialogue, reconciliation, transitional justice and security sector reform.
Reiterating its rejection of foreign military interference, the EU affirmed its commitment to Syria's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity in line with UN Security Council resolutions. It concluded that, despite major challenges, Syria has real opportunities to build a better future, and the EU remains committed to supporting the aspirations of the Syrian people for a stable, democratic and prosperous state. (end) arn.seo