Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh represented the UAE at the Ninth Brussels Conference focused on Syria’s transition. The conference aimed to gather support for an inclusive approach, highlighting the role of women in peace processes. Nusseibeh reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment with significant aid to Syria and called for accountability against violence, further advocating for the country’s stability and sovereignty.
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 9th Brussels Conference on ‘Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition’ from March 17 to 18, 2025. This conference gathered EU institutions, international partners, the United Nations, and Syrian civil society to advocate for an inclusive and peaceful transition in Syria.
The conference aimed to mobilize global support for Syria, ensuring continued aid for its citizens both domestically and refugees in neighboring countries. Key discussions included strategies to facilitate the safe, voluntary return of refugees while alleviating pressure on host communities and Syria’s limited support infrastructure.
In her address, HE Nusseibeh recognized the collaborative efforts of various nations and organizations toward securing a brighter future for Syria and the surrounding region. She underscored the necessity of inclusivity in the transition process, emphasizing the critical role of women in achieving lasting peace.
Nusseibeh stated, “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”. She stressed the importance of not disregarding this established fact, highlighting that for Syria to realize its full potential, women must be included in the negotiations.
Furthermore, she condemned the recent attacks against Syrian security forces and violence against civilians, calling for accountability. Nusseibeh reiterated the UAE’s extensive support to the Syrian populace, totaling more than EUR 1.5 billion in aid provided since the onset of the conflict, including EUR 250 million in the past two years.
Her Excellency also voiced the UAE’s firm stance on promoting Syria’s stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, urging Israel to adhere to international law and the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. Additionally, she engaged in discussions with EU officials, Members of the European Parliament, and senior diplomats from Europe and the Middle East during her visit.
In conclusion, the UAE’s participation in the Ninth Brussels Conference highlighted its commitment to supporting Syria’s transition and addressing the humanitarian crisis. Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh’s emphasis on inclusive dialogue, especially involving women, was pivotal for sustainable peace. The UAE’s ongoing assistance and advocacy underscore its dedication to ensuring Syria’s stability and territorial integrity while fostering international cooperation against extremism and violence.
Original Source: www.mofaic.gov.ae
