Fajon in Syria: Syrians deserve a better future after 14 years of hell

“Visiting Syria at this crucial time shows Slovenia’s solidarity with the Syrian people, who deserve a better future after 14 years of hell. The Syrian transitional government faces a historic opportunity and a great responsibility. It is crucial that this transition is inclusive and creates a country that meets the needs of all Syrians. The new, unified Syria must take into account the voice of civil society as well as that of women. Stability in Syria is the key to peace in the Middle East. Slovenia will continue to follow the situation closely. As part of the EU, we will also help in the reconstruction of the country,” said Minister Fajon after talks with members of the new Syrian administration. She underlined Slovenia’s support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Syria. “Slovenia will always stand up for peace and international law; therefore, accountability for crimes is of vital importance to us,” she added. She emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in the north-east of the country and for dialogue between all political groups. 

President al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister al-Shaibani expressed their gratitude for Slovenia’s support, which is particularly valuable due to its UN Security Council membership. They expressed the hope that the international community will lift the sanctions as soon as possible, which is a prerequisite for economic development and reconstruction. They pointed out that what Syrians want most at this moment is peace, as they are exhausted by the long war. 

Minister Fajon recalled the political agreement reached by EU foreign ministers at the end of January on the gradual and reversible lifting of sanctions, starting with the energy and transport sectors. She reiterated that the EU would decide on the further lifting of sanctions in the light of developments and the situation on the ground.

In Damascus, Minister Fajon also met with Stephan Sakalian, ICRC Head of Delegation in Syria, which is our strategic partner for humanitarian aid. She was briefed on humanitarian and reconstruction needs as well as the state of civil society, especially regarding women's rights. “A tragic consequence of the prolonged war and economic collapse is that 90% of Syrians live below the poverty line. Since 2014, Slovenia has provided 14 million euros in humanitarian aid to Syria. We will continue to provide support for the removal of explosives in the north-east with the help of ITF Enhancing Human Security and humanitarian aid in cooperation with strategic partners,” the Minister added.