Stefano Sannino, Head of the Directorate-General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf (DG MENA) at the European Commission, visited Syria as part of a broader mission to the region. This marked his first official visit to the country. His mission aimed to reaffirm the European Union’s support for a peaceful, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition, and to explore avenues for strengthened cooperation in rebuilding the country’s socio-economic fabric.

“I bring a message of support from the European Union to the Syrian people,” Sannino stated. “We want to see a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned peaceful and inclusive transition. We will work together for socio-economic recovery and reconstruction of the country.” The visit took place shortly after the EU Council’s decision to lift economic sanctions on Syria, a move that was met with positive reactions during his stay. Discussions with Syrian officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, focused on rebuilding a vibrant, united Syria and preparing for the upcoming Day of Dialogue.

Sannino then continued to Lebanon, where he met with Syrian and Lebanese Media Connectors — young journalists and journalism students committed to covering regional issues through a constructive lens. The exchange created a space for open, intergenerational dialogue. Participants shared their challenges in accessing information and reporting in conflict-affected contexts, and emphasised the critical role of youth in shaping public discourse.