EU Ready to Recognize Syria's New Government and Reopen Embassy
The European Union (EU) has announced its readiness to establish direct communication with Syria's new leadership and reopen its embassy in the country. This announcement was made on Tuesday by EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Von der Leyen stated that the EU will work to increase humanitarian aid to Syria while addressing the risks of the resurgence of the extremist group Islamic State (IS).
Following her visit to Turkey and a meeting with President Erdogan, von der Leyen said, “We want to engage in direct dialogue with Syria’s new leadership. However, the risk of the resurgence of IS in eastern Syria is real, and it is crucial to prevent it. Turkey's security concerns must also be considered seriously.”
Kaja Kallas, speaking in the European Parliament, said that an EU delegation had been sent to Damascus on Monday, where communication with the new leadership and other groups has already begun.
Kallas further stated, "We have cautiously begun a process of engagement with Damascus. The EU aims to play a positive role to ensure an inclusive and tolerant approach."
Von der Leyen added that the EU would increase direct communication with Syria’s new ruling group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
“We have the opportunity to have a direct influence in the region, but we must exercise extreme caution in dealing with the uncertainty of the situation and the threat posed by extremist groups,” she said.
It is noteworthy that a new government has been formed under the leadership of HTS after the removal of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. EU leaders have indicated that they will take further steps based on the evolving situation in Syria.
