EU’s Kallas in Damascus for talks on long-term partnership with Syria

Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani met in Damascus with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas.

“The talks are being held at Tishreen Palace and are focused on establishing a long-term partnership between the European Union and Syria,” a government source told Syria TV. “The EU intends to assist the Syrian authorities in stabilising the economic situation and restoring the functioning of state institutions.”

According to the source, Kallas will later be received by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Earlier, as part of her official visit to Damascus, the EU foreign policy chief met with Minister of Social and Labour Affairs Hind Kabawat, who represents Syria’s Christian minority and is the only woman in the cabinet.

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour said in a statement on Facebook that the two sides discussed prospects for cooperation in social protection and sustainable development. They also addressed issues related to “strengthening the role of civil society, women’s rights and the reintegration of citizens returning to the country.”

By Jeyhun Aghazada