From our side, we must do everything in our power to support these goals and a successful transition. This is why we gather here today. We want the Syrian people to know that we will be with them every step of the way. And this is why it is so important that, for the first time, we are joined by Minister al-Shaibani. In the past, we have always worked for Syria and for Syrians. But today, we can finally work with Syria. And this gives new meaning to our Brussels Conference. We would like to hear from you about the needs of your people, and your plans for rebuilding State institutions. For every new step you take towards an inclusive political transition, we are ready to move forward with you. Europe is ready to do its part. And this is what I would like to focus on.

Since the start of the conflict, we have provided over EUR 37 billion in support of Syrians. Now that Assad has fallen, this support is even more important. According to the UNHCR, 1.5 million Syrians might return to their country already this year. And two more million people, who are currently displaced within Syria, could potentially return to their homes. Today we are working with the host countries and UN agencies to support them along the way. Basic services must be restored. Electricity is only available for a few hours per day. There is not enough drinking water. Syrian children must be able to go back to school. All this is vital to re-build a normal and dignified life. Syrians need greater support – whether they are still abroad, or they decide to go home. This is why today the European Union is increasing its pledge for Syrians – in the country and in the region – to almost EUR 2.5 billion for 2025 and 2026. And we call on all who are here today to do the same. Because at this critical time, the people of Syria need us more than ever.

But as we tackle the immediate needs of Syrians, we must also start looking to the future of the country. This is my second point. There are entire cities to rebuild, and a whole economy to restart. This is why we have suspended our sanctions on key economic sectors, including energy, transport, and the financial transactions that are linked to them. And we are ready to do more to attract the necessary investments for reconstruction, as the political transition advances towards a credible, inclusive, and non-sectarian government. As long as progress continues, we are also willing to scale up our support for recovery and reconstruction – together with our partners in the region and across the world. Syria used to be one of the economic powers of the Middle East. And we want to be partners for recovery and growth of a new Syria.

In the old Syria, a dictator controlled all political and economic power. But in the new Syria, power can go back to where it belongs – that is, to the people of Syria. And this is the third issue where we can be of help. Here at the Brussels Conferences, we have always hosted Syria’s civil society representatives – both from inside the country and in exile. Some of them were banned by the Assad regime because of their ideas. But now they can finally be heard. I am proud to announce that this year we are planning to hold the civil society dialogue of the Brussels Conference in Damascus. Because all Syrians deserve to take their future into their hands.