In a significant step toward rebuilding communication channels with the international community, Syria participated in the 10th Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) Regional Forum in Barcelona. The Syrian delegation was headed by Muhammad Shukri, Director of European Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates.
Shukri emphasized that the forum provides a practical platform bringing together European institutions and Mediterranean countries, enabling institutional dialogue on reconstruction and development needs. He noted that Syria could enhance its integration by participating in joint regional programs and benefiting from technical expertise and funding allocated for infrastructure and human development projects.
Fostering Dialogue Through Economic Collaboration and Mutual Respect
Shukri explained that the UfM forum is not a direct political platform; however, it can help create a more positive atmosphere for dialogue by focusing on shared economic and developmental priorities. He stressed that strengthening common understandings, especially principles such as good neighborliness and refraining from actions that threaten the security and stability of other states, forms the basis of any meaningful cooperation.
He added that Syria expects its European and Arab partners to support a practical, needs-driven approach centered on improving living conditions, enhancing regional stability, and maintaining open channels for technical and institutional cooperation that serve Syria and its people.
Coordination Between Syria and Jordan
Shukri confirmed that coordination between Syria and Jordan is ongoing at various levels regarding the creation of safe and voluntary conditions for the return of Syrian refugees. He described Jordan as a “neighboring country and reliable partner” with a clear understanding of Syria’s realities and current needs.
He emphasized that the Syrian government believes that ensuring the safe, voluntary return of refugees requires a joint approach addressing several key issues. Ongoing efforts with Jordan focus on enhancing cooperation in all matters that benefit both peoples and help establish dignified, sustainable conditions for return.
Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman Safadi, affirmed that Syria’s stability is a shared regional interest and that its successful reconstruction will positively impact regional security and stability.
UfM Welcomes Syria’s Return and Confirms Support for Reconstruction
Foreign ministers participating in the UfM forum expressed support for the Syrian government’s efforts rebuilding the country based on security, stability, unity, and sovereignty. They welcomed Syria’s reintegration into the union after years of suspension and reaffirmed their backing for the Jordanian-Syrian-American roadmap aimed at stabilizing southern Syria and resolving the crisis in Suwayda.
Syria’s participation in the 10th UfM Regional Forum sends a clear message of Damascus’s openness to regional dialogue and Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, as well as its readiness to resume engagement within multilateral frameworks focused on development and stability. Syria officially regained its membership in the UfM in July 2025, after nearly 14 years of suspension.
