The EU's new decision to establish the first contact with Damascus.

The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, stated that the leaders of the member countries have agreed on the approach to be adopted towards Syria and that the diplomatic presence in the capital, Damascus, will be increased.

The summit meeting of EU leaders held in Brussels has concluded. The new President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, along with the rotating President of the Council, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, held a joint press conference after the summit.

"EU WILL INCREASE ITS PRESENCE IN DAMASCUS"

Stating that one of the topics discussed at the summit was the developments in Syria following the collapse of the Baath regime, Costa said, "We have reached a consensus on the fundamental principles and objectives of the approach we will adopt. We want to guarantee a peaceful and inclusive transition, maintain territorial integrity, ensure respect for human rights, including women's rights, and protect religious and ethnic minorities." Costa expressed that the EU is in contact with actors on the ground, the new administration, and regional countries, stating, "The EU will increase its diplomatic presence in Damascus."

LEYEN HIGHLIGHTED THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTACTS WITH HTS

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also stated, "Europe will do its part to support Syria during this critical period because it cares about the future of Syria." Referring to her visits to Jordan and Turkey during the week, Von der Leyen emphasized, "It is important to intensify contacts on the ground to continue meeting the humanitarian needs of the people in Syria. We have established channels for political discussions with Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). These are based on the existing channels we already have for our humanitarian aid. Being on the ground now and having political channels with HTS and other groups is beneficial. It was also good for our top diplomat to return to Damascus." she evaluated.

Von der Leyen noted that efforts will focus on the reconstruction of the country and ensuring that Syrians can return to their homes safely, honorably, and voluntarily when the necessary conditions are met.

Since the collapse of the Baath regime on December 8, the EU has been sending messages that a cautious but constructive relationship will be established with the new administration in Damascus. Earlier this week, a high-level diplomatic delegation from the EU visited Damascus to establish the first contact.