Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh represented the UAE at the Ninth Brussels Conference on Syria, emphasizing the importance of an inclusive transition and the role of women in peace processes. The conference aimed to mobilize support for Syrian citizens and address refugee challenges. Nusseibeh reiterated the UAE’s commitment to aiding Syria and combating extremism while calling for accountability in recent violence.
Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs and the Foreign Minister’s 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’ on March 17 and 18, 2025. The conference aimed to rally global support for a peaceful transition in Syria by gathering EU institutions, partner countries, the United Nations, and Syrian civil society.
Participants at the conference focused on mobilizing resources to support the Syrian populace and facilitate the voluntary return of refugees. The discussions emphasized the need to alleviate the burden on host communities while ensuring that support infrastructure within Syria is not overwhelmed.
During her address, HE Nusseibeh praised the congruent efforts of all participating nations and organizations in striving for a more promising future for Syria and the surrounding region. She underscored the necessity of an inclusive transition process and highlighted the crucial role of women in achieving lasting peace in the country.
“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,” stated Nusseibeh. She insisted that for Syria to reach its full potential, it is imperative for Syrian women to be included in the dialogue.
In addition, Her Excellency advocated for promoting tolerance and combating extremism and terrorism, emphasizing the need for cooperative efforts to prevent terrorist organizations from regaining a foothold in Syria. She condemned the recent assaults against Syrian security personnel and violence inflicted upon civilians while calling for accountability for the aggressors.
The UAE has pledged extensive support for the Syrian people, contributing over EUR 1.5 billion in aid since the onset of the conflict, including EUR 250 million in the last two years alone. Nusseibeh reiterated the UAE’s commitment to Syria’s stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, urging Israel to comply with international law and the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement.
Her Excellency also engaged in discussions with EU officials, Members of the European Parliament, and senior diplomats from both Europe and the Middle East during her visit to Brussels.
The participation of Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh at the Ninth Brussels Conference underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering a peaceful transition in Syria. With a focus on inclusivity and the pivotal role of women in peace negotiations, she highlighted the vital need for sustained global support for Syrian citizens. Furthermore, Nusseibeh’s discussions stressed the importance of countering extremism while reiterating the UAE’s generous humanitarian assistance and dedication to Syria’s long-term stability.
Original Source: www.mofaic.gov.ae
