EU Lunches New $721M Aid Framework For Syria

The European Union has announced a major reset in its relationship with Syria, unveiling a €620 million support initiative for 2026–2027 under a newly established three-pillar cooperation framework.

The announcement followed a historic visit to Damascus by Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, marking the first time senior EU leaders have formally engaged with Syria’s new leadership. During the visit, they held talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on rebuilding ties and supporting national recovery.

Von der Leyen explained that the renewed engagement is built on three core pillars.

The first centers on political partnership, with plans to launch a high-level dialogue later this year. This process will explore how the EU can assist Syria in post-conflict recovery, reconstruction efforts, and the promotion of civil peace.

The second pillar focuses on economic cooperation. She noted that the EU removed all remaining sanctions last year, invited the European Investment Bank to resume operations in Syria, and signaled openness to restarting a cooperation agreement that could improve Syrian access to European markets.

The third pillar involves direct financial support, recognizing the scale of Syria’s reconstruction needs after more than a decade of conflict. Under the plan, approximately €620 million will be allocated over two years to fund humanitarian assistance, early recovery projects, and bilateral programs aimed at restoring basic services and rebuilding state institutions.

Von der Leyen emphasized that a central goal of the initiative is to enable displaced Syrians to return home. She said the EU will strengthen coordination with regional partners such as Türkiye, Jordan, and Lebanon, as well as with the UNHCR, to support safe, voluntary, and dignified refugee returns.

While welcoming progress, she also expressed concern over recent outbreaks of violence, describing them as troubling and urging all sides to maintain dialogue and restraint.

In a message posted on social media platform X, von der Leyen said Syrians have begun a difficult but hopeful journey after years of repression and war, adding that Europe remains committed to supporting the country’s recovery and reconstruction.

Costa echoed that message, saying the collapse of the former regime offered a long-awaited opportunity for change, while acknowledging that Syria still faces significant challenges ahead.

The visit reflects a broader shift in EU policy toward Syria’s new authorities. In June 2025, EU Mediterranean Commissioner Dubravka Šuica visited Damascus and expressed support for a stable and prosperous Syria. Earlier, in May, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed the lifting of economic sanctions imposed under the previous government.

Former president Bashar al-Assad, who ruled Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia following the collapse of the Baath Party regime that had governed the country since 1963. A transitional administration led by al-Sharaa was established in January 2025, opening the door to renewed international engagement.