BRUSSELS: The EU welcomed the first session of Syria’s People’s Assembly as “another positive step” in the country’s political process.
EU foreign affairs spokesperson Anouar El-Anouni said the bloc supports the assembly, which held its inaugural session on July 12, as part of a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process.
In a statement published Thursday on the EU Council’s website, El-Anouni said the assembly would be tasked with adopting a new constitution, launching fundamental reforms to shape Syria’s future, and strengthening accountability and transitional justice.
BACKGROUND
The EU said the People’s Assembly would be tasked with adopting a new constitution, launching fundamental reforms to shape Syria’s future, and strengthening accountability and transitional justice.
He added that the assembly would play a key role in addressing the legitimate aspirations of all segments of Syrian society.
The EU reiterated its commitment to supporting Syria’s recovery, reconstruction efforts and humanitarian assistance, saying member states were ready to cooperate with the People’s Assembly on capacity building, good governance and joint efforts to ensure respect for international law and the UN Charter.
The bloc also highlighted its desire to deepen the European-Syrian partnership in support of the Syrian people, work toward a future partnership agreement, and facilitate Syria’s reintegration into Euro-Mediterranean frameworks, as well as global trade and connectivity networks.
The People’s Assembly held its first session following liberation on Sunday in the presence of President Ahmad Al-Sharaa and several ministers.
Al-Sharaa said that the launch of the assembly marked an important national milestone and a new step toward boosting consultation and responsibility while building state institutions founded on dialogue, competence and the rule of law.
In a post on X on Sunday, he congratulated the assembly’s members on the start of their work, wishing them success in carrying out “this national responsibility” in service of the Syrian people and in support of national reconstruction and prosperity.
UK Special Envoy to Syria Barrie Peach said the assembly session marked an important step in the country’s political transition, and highlighted the UK’s support for efforts to strengthen Syrian state institutions.
In a statement posted by his office on X, Peach said the UK stands ready to support efforts aimed at strengthening Syrian state institutions and promoting long-term peace, stability and security.
Italian Ambassador Stefano Ravagnan described the inaugural session as a key step in Syria’s political process.
In a post on X, Ravagnan said he was honored to attend the session, adding that it paves the way for legislation that will help shape Syria’s future.
