On Monday 11 May, the European Union strengthened its relations with Syria by reinstating the full application of its cooperation agreement, but also by stepping up its technical and financial support to the country.
“Today is a great day, a historic day for relations between Syria and the European Union. It marks an important political step in the reintegration of Syria as a partner of the EU”, stressed the Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, to the media. “We are laying the foundations for a strategic partnership based on the commitment of both parties. After a 14-year interruption, we need to revitalise this partnership”, added Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Assad al-Shaibani.
The EU Council thus adopted a decision ending the partial suspension of the cooperation agreement between the EU and Syria, repealing the 2011 decision to introduce this suspension (see EUROPE 13852/5). The two parties would also like to move towards an association agreement.
In addition, at the end of the Syria Partnership Coordination Forum, Dubravka Šuica announced that the EU was working to set up a ‘Technical Assistance Hub’. This €15 million Hub will aim to strengthen the capacities of Syrian institutions. “This centre will centralise technical expertise, enabling faster, better coordinated and more effective support for the Syrian authorities”, explained Ms Šuica.
She also announced an EU contribution of €14 million for the rehabilitation of the Al-Rastan Hospital in Homs.
In addition to the €175 million socio-economic recovery plan announced in June 2025 (see EUROPE 13653/24), the EU is working, this summer, on the presentation of additional funding of €280 million for 2026 and 2027, according to the Commissioner. “In total, the €455 million will support infrastructure, socio-economic recovery, social cohesion, transitional justice and institution-building. These are, of course, the essential foundations of a stable, prosperous and inclusive Syria”, stressed Ms Šuica.
The minister highlighted several areas of work. Firstly, the restoration of vital transport, electricity and energy infrastructures: “Without adequate energy supplies and basic services to rebuild the health, education and schooling sectors, it is impossible to have a flourishing economy”. In addition, the country needs to consolidate national institutions and ensure sustainability and capacity-building over the long term, according to the minister.
“We want to focus on reconstruction and creating a safe environment for Syrians to return home”, he stressed. A return that will take place “if it is safe, voluntary and dignified”, promised the Commissioner.
At the end of the Foreign Affairs Council, EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas, announced that ministers had agreed to lift the sanctions imposed on the Syrian interior and defence ministers.
In the evening, the first EU-Syria High-Level Political Dialogue was due to continue discussions on bilateral cooperation and EU support for the country. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)