EU moves to fully restore cooperation agreement with Syria

The European Commission has proposed the full resumption of the EU–Syria Cooperation Agreement, marking a new step in relations between both sides.

The move follows an announcement by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in January 2026 outlining a new framework of EU cooperation with Syria. Under this framework, the EU is increasing its support for a peaceful and inclusive Syria-led transition, addressing humanitarian needs, and contributing to efforts aimed at economic recovery.

The EU is stepping up its support for a peaceful and inclusive Syria-led transition.

We are proposing the full resumption of the EU-Syria Cooperation Agreement.

It aims to address humanitarian needs and aid the country’s economic recovery.https://t.co/KUgSBLbOE7 pic.twitter.com/MHocxOdsZV

— European Commission (@EU_Commission) April 21, 2026

The EU–Syria Cooperation Agreement was partially suspended in 2011 in response to systematic repression and grave human rights violations by the Assad regime. The agreement has served as the framework for EU–Syria cooperation since 1978, supporting Syria’s economic and social development and promoting fair and lawful trade relations. It abolishes customs duties on imports into the EU of most industrial products originating in Syria and prevents quantitative restrictions on both sides.

The Commission said the renewed momentum in EU–Syrian political and cooperation relations follows the lifting of all economic sanctions on Syria in May 2025, as well as von der Leyen’s visit to Damascus in January 2026. During that visit, she outlined three pillars of renewed bilateral relations aimed at supporting reconciliation and recovery: a new political partnership, a framework for enhanced trade and economic cooperation, and a financial support package of around €620 million for 2026–2027, covering humanitarian aid, early recovery assistance, and bilateral support.

The proposal must now be formally adopted by the Council of the EU and subsequently notified to the Syrian transitional authorities. The Commission described the initiative as an important political signal ahead of the EU–Syria High Level Political Dialogue scheduled for 11 May 2026.

By Vafa Guliyeva