Syria, EU discuss joint recovery plans in post-sanctions phone call

Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani held a phone call with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Wednesday to discuss next steps following the European Union’s recent decision to lift all economic sanctions on Syria.

According to a readout from Syria’s Foreign Ministry, Shaibani welcomed the EU’s move, describing it as a “positive indication” for stronger cooperation and long-term stability. He emphasized the need to activate early recovery and reconstruction projects, especially with EU support.

Both sides agreed to coordinate closely on humanitarian, economic, and political issues. The conversation also included plans to work together on improving infrastructure and ensuring basic services for Syrians affected by over a decade of conflict.

They also stressed the importance of securing the voluntary and dignified return of Syrian refugees, in coordination with the EU and neighboring countries like Türkiye, Jordan, and Lebanon.

The EU officially lifted sanctions on Syria on Tuesday, citing the need to support the Syrian people as they begin rebuilding their country. The move followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent order for the Treasury Department to end long-standing U.S. sanctions first imposed in 1979 and later expanded during the Syrian civil war.

Syria is currently in a political transition. Former President Bashar Assad, who led the country for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia in December, ending the Baath Party’s decades-long rule. In January, opposition leader Ahmed al-Sharaa was named transitional president.

The EU’s shift in policy comes at a critical time, as Syria’s new leadership seeks international partnerships to support recovery, rebuild institutions, and encourage the safe return of millions of refugees.

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