The MED9 Summit, a gathering of southern EU countries bordering the Mediterranean, concluded in the Slovenian coastal city of Portoroz with a clear message of support for Syria’s sovereignty and reconstruction. The leaders of the nine-member group—France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia, and Croatia—were joined by Jordan, reflecting growing regional engagement on the Syrian file.
In their final statement, the leaders expressed full support for the Syrian people and government in rebuilding the country on “foundations that preserve its sovereignty, unity, stability, and territorial integrity.” The summit underscored that achieving lasting peace in Syria is essential to ensuring broader security and stability in the Mediterranean region.
Humanitarian Priorities and Refugee Return
The participants emphasized that stability in Syria remains a pivotal factor for the security of the entire Mediterranean basin. They called for advancing a comprehensive political process that meets the aspirations of all Syrians, guarantees their rights, and supports a peaceful national future.
The summit also urged the international community to intensify efforts to create suitable conditions for the safe, voluntary, and sustainable return of Syrian refugees to their homeland. Leaders agreed that humanitarian aid must be coordinated in a way that contributes to early recovery and the rebuilding of essential infrastructure.
Backing the Tripartite Roadmap for Southern Syria
In a notable move, the summit voiced strong support for the tripartite roadmap prepared by Syria, Jordan, and the US concerning the situation in Suwayda Governorate. The plan was described as a “constructive and important initiative” aimed at restoring stability in southern Syria.
Participants praised Jordan’s role in facilitating dialogue and mediation to ease tensions in the region, highlighting the country’s contribution to maintaining border security and fostering regional de-escalation.
A Vision for a Stable and Reconnected Syria
The MED9 leaders concluded that stability in Syria and the wider Middle East forms a cornerstone of Mediterranean and European security. They stressed that the next phase should focus on constructive international cooperation, especially in reconstruction, economic revitalization, and political normalization with Damascus.
The final communiqué noted that Syria is entering a new stage of political and diplomatic openness after two decades of isolation. The MED9 countries affirmed their readiness to contribute to peacebuilding and support Syria’s reintegration into the regional and global community, viewing it as a key step toward a stable and secure Mediterranean.
