UAE Participation at EU’s Ninth Brussels Conference on Syria Transition
The UAE participated in the Ninth Brussels Conference on Syria, represented by Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh. The conference focused on mobilizing global support for a peaceful transition in Syria, with discussions on refugee return and the role of women in peacebuilding. Nusseibeh emphasized the UAE’s financial aid and the importance of accountability for violence in Syria.
Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs and Envoy of the Foreign Minister to the European Union, represented the United Arab Emirates during her visit to Brussels on 17 and 18 March 2025 for the Ninth Brussels Conference on ‘Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition’. This event convened EU institutions, partner nations, the United Nations, international organizations, and Syrian civil society, focusing on mobilizing global support for an inclusive and peaceful transition in Syria.
Participants at the conference committed to providing sustained assistance for Syrians both within the country and in surrounding regions. Discussions centered on facilitating the voluntary and large-scale return of refugees to mitigate the pressures on host communities while ensuring that Syria’s limited support infrastructure is not overwhelmed.
In her address, Her Excellency Nusseibeh praised the collaborative efforts of the nations and organizations present in seeking a better future for Syria and its region. She highlighted the crucial need for an inclusive transition process in Syria, particularly emphasizing the role of women in establishing sustainable peace.
Nusseibeh stated, “There is a strong link between the active engagement of women in negotiating peace agreements, and the long-term durability of those post-conflict settlements. We must not close our eyes to this well-established fact. For Syria’s full potential to be reached, Syrian women must have a seat at the table.”
She also advocated for promoting tolerance and combating extremism and terrorism, noting the importance of collaborative efforts to prevent terrorist groups from re-establishing safe havens in Syria. Condemning recent attacks on Syrian security forces and violence against civilians, Nusseibeh called for accountability for those responsible for such actions.
Her Excellency reaffirmed the UAE’s ongoing support for Syria and its people, noting that the UAE has contributed over EUR 1.5 billion in aid since the conflict began, including EUR 250 million in the past two years. She reiterated the UAE’s support for Syria’s stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, encouraging Israel to comply with international law and the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement.
During her time at the conference, Her Excellency also engaged in discussions with EU officials, Members of the European Parliament, and senior diplomats from Europe and the Middle East, further emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to stability and cooperation in the region.
The participation of the United Arab Emirates in the Ninth Brussels Conference underscores its commitment to supporting Syria’s transition towards peace and stability. Her Excellency Nusseibeh’s remarks highlight the critical role of inclusivity, particularly the participation of women, in achieving durable peace. The UAE’s financial support and calls for accountability reflect its ongoing dedication to the well-being of Syrian citizens and regional stability.
Original Source: www.mofaic.gov.ae
