Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh represented the UAE at the Ninth Brussels Conference focused on supporting Syria’s transition. The conference involved key global actors discussing assistance for Syrian refugees and the significance of women’s roles in peace efforts. The UAE pledged significant ongoing aid and reiterated its commitment to Syria’s stability and sovereignty.
Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh, the Assistant Minister for Political Affairs and UAE Envoy to the European Union, represented the United Arab Emirates at the Ninth Brussels Conference on ‘Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition’ held on March 17 and 18, 2025. This conference gathered EU institutions, important partner countries, the United Nations, and Syrian civil society, focusing on mobilizing international support for a peaceful transition in Syria.
During the conference, participants pledged to provide ongoing assistance to support Syrians both within the country and in neighboring regions. Discussions centered on facilitating the voluntary, large-scale return of refugees in a manner that minimizes the strain on host communities and supports Syria’s limited infrastructure.
In her address, HE Nusseibeh praised the collective efforts of attendees in promoting a brighter future for Syria and the region. She highlighted the necessity of an inclusive transition process in Syria and emphasized the crucial role women must assume in achieving sustainable peace. “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,” Nusseibeh articulated.
Furthermore, she stressed the importance of fostering tolerance and combating extremism and terrorism, calling for increased collaboration to prevent terrorist groups from regaining a foothold in Syria. HE Nusseibeh condemned recent assaults on Syrian security forces and violence against civilians, advocating for complete accountability for the attackers.
The UAE has consistently supported the Syrian population, contributing over EUR 1.5 billion in aid to Syrians and refugees since the onset of the conflict, with EUR 250 million allocated in the past two years alone. Nusseibeh reiterated the UAE’s commitment to upholding Syria’s stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, urging Israel to comply with international law.
Besides her participation in the conference, Her Excellency held discussions with EU officials, Members of the European Parliament, and senior diplomats from both Europe and the Middle East, furthering diplomatic relations and dialogues on the crisis in Syria.
In conclusion, the UAE’s participation in the Ninth Brussels Conference underscores its commitment to supporting Syria during a challenging transition. Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh’s remarks highlighted key areas such as the importance of women’s involvement in peace efforts, the call for accountability against violence, and the provision of substantial humanitarian aid. The collective efforts from the international community remain crucial for a peaceful future in Syria.
Original Source: www.mofaic.gov.ae
