The UAE, represented by Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh, participated in the Ninth Brussels Conference on Syria, aiming to support a peaceful transition. The conference highlighted the need for an inclusive process, emphasizing women’s roles in peace negotiations. The UAE has provided over EUR 1.5 billion in aid and firmly supports Syrian sovereignty and stability.
Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh, the Assistant Minister for Political Affairs and Envoy of the Foreign Minister to the European Union, represented the United Arab Emirates at the Ninth Brussels Conference focusing on Syria from March 17 to 18, 2025. The conference aimed to mobilize international support for a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria, engaging EU institutions, key partner nations, the United Nations, and Syrian civil society.
During the event, participants pledged extensive assistance to support Syrian citizens within Syria and in neighboring countries. They explored strategies for facilitating the large-scale voluntary return of refugees while ensuring that host communities and local infrastructures are not overwhelmed by returning populations.
In her address, HE Nusseibeh lauded the collective efforts of nations and organizations to create a brighter future for Syria. She emphasized the necessity of an inclusive transition process and the critical role of women in achieving lasting peace. Nusseibeh asserted, “There is a strong link between the active engagement of women in negotiating peace agreements, and the long-term durability of those post-conflict settlements.”
Additionally, Nusseibeh highlighted the importance of promoting tolerance and combating extremism, stressing the need for cooperation to thwart terrorist groups from gaining a foothold in Syria. She condemned the recent violence against Syrian security forces and civilians, advocating for accountability for those responsible.
The UAE has firmly supported the Syrian people through aid exceeding EUR 1.5 billion since the conflict began, with EUR 250 million allocated in the last two years. Nusseibeh reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to Syria’s stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, urging adherence to international law and the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement by Israel. Besides her participation in the conference, she engaged in discussions with EU officials, European Parliament members, and senior diplomats from Europe and the Middle East.
The participation of the UAE at the Ninth Brussels Conference underscores its commitment to supporting Syria during a pivotal transition. Emphasizing inclusivity, particularly the essential role of women, the conference aimed to foster global support for Syrian stability. With significant humanitarian aid and diplomatic engagement, the UAE reaffirms its dedication to the Syrian cause while advocating for justice and security in the region.
Original Source: www.mofaic.gov.ae
