Kalash from Damascus: The Stability of Syria is an Integral Part of Europe's Security

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The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, confirmed on Tuesday that the stability of Syria is "an integral part of Europe's security," while Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shabani called for the lifting of the remaining European sanctions, announcing that Damascus will work to elevate its diplomatic representation to the European Union in Brussels.

The statements came during a joint press conference held by al-Shabani and Borrell in Damascus, following the European official's reception at the Tishreen Palace, in a visit focused on the transition process in Syria and relations with the European Union.

Al-Shabani stated that Syria hopes its partnership with the European Union will reflect positively on the reconstruction process and addressing the effects of the war, emphasizing that Syrian technical committees are continuously working with the European side. He added that Syria could become "one of the most prominent active partners of the European Union in the region," announcing that Damascus will work to elevate its diplomatic representation to the European Union in Brussels.

The Syrian Foreign Minister also called for the lifting of the remaining European sanctions imposed on his country, at a time when Damascus is seeking to expand its economic and diplomatic openness to European countries.

On her part, Kalas confirmed that the success of the transition in Syria is not only important to the Syrians, but also represents a priority for the European Union, stating that the stability of the country is directly linked to the security of Europe.

She added that the European Union wants to achieve a "real and successful transition" in Syria and is ready to provide assistance, emphasizing the need to mobilize more investments and strengthen partnerships with Damascus.

She explained that a successful transition depends on accountability and reconciliation, affirming the European Union's readiness to support Syrian institutions during this phase.

Kalas also stressed the need to support the banking infrastructure in Syria, which is related to Damascus's efforts to reactivate its economy and attract investments after years of war and sanctions.

The European foreign policy official revealed the mobilization of 51 million euros to assist in clearing mines and remnants of war in Syria.

In the context of Sweida, Kalas confirmed the European Union's support for dialogue to resolve the issue, amid efforts to address tensions and establish stability.

The demand from Al-Shaibani to lift the remaining sanctions comes after a series of European steps to ease the restrictions imposed on Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024.

The European Union had suspended a number of sanctions in the energy, transport, and financial transactions sectors in February 2025, before deciding in May of the same year to lift economic sanctions, while maintaining measures based on security considerations, including an arms embargo and restrictions on certain dual-use goods and technologies, as well as sanctions on individuals and entities linked to the previous regime and human rights violations.

These measures explain Al-Shaibani's remarks about the necessity of lifting "the remaining" sanctions, as the European Union has not lifted all restrictive measures related to Syria. Al-Shaibani had previously emphasized during diplomatic communications the importance of completing the technical and executive procedures related to lifting the sanctions, which would allow for a tangible reflection of that on the Syrian economy and banking sector.