EU Foreign Ministers Visit Syria for Talks

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot made a historic visit to Syria, marking the first EU ministerial engagement since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. The ministers met with Syria's new de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and emphasized a potential 'new beginning' in relations, contingent upon the inclusion of all ethnic and religious groups in Syria's political process. Baerbock underlined that rights should not be compromised by a prolonged transition to elections or extreme measures, while Barrot advocated for a peaceful transition to stability. This visit reflects a significant shift in international diplomacy towards Syria, as Western nations consider revising their approach towards groups like HTS, previously labeled as terrorist organizations. The ministers' discussions also touched on the need for governance reforms and the support of Syrian civil society. This engagement indicates a broader trend of renewed diplomatic efforts between Europe and Syria amid changing regional dynamics.