Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh represented the UAE at the Ninth Brussels Conference on Syria, emphasizing the need for a peaceful transition and the involvement of women in negotiations. The conference focused on support for Syrian refugees and promoting tolerance, with the UAE committing over EUR 1.5 billion in aid since the conflict began. Nusseibeh also urged accountability for violence against civilians and called for adherence to international law by Israel.
Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs from the United Arab Emirates, represented her country at the Ninth Brussels Conference on ‘Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition’, held on March 17 and 18, 2025. This conference gathered EU institutions, partner countries, the United Nations, and Syrian civil society to encourage global support for a peaceful transition in Syria. Participants committed to assist in sustaining support for Syrians domestically and in surrounding nations.
Discussion topics included strategies to facilitate the voluntary return of refugees without overburdening Syria’s limited infrastructure. In her remarks, HE Nusseibeh recognized the efforts of the assembly in working towards a brighter future for Syria and emphasized the necessity of an inclusive transition process, highlighting the critical role of women in attaining lasting peace. She 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.”
Nusseibeh urged for cooperation in promoting tolerance and confronting extremism to prevent terrorist groups from regaining power in Syria. She condemned the recent violence against civilians and attacks on Syrian security forces, insisting on accountability for the aggressors. Furthermore, she confirmed the UAE’s consistent support for Syria, having provided over EUR 1.5 billion in aid to Syrians and refugees since the conflict began, with EUR 250 million allocated in the past two years.
She reiterated the UAE’s commitment to Syria’s stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, calling on Israel to adhere to international law and the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement. Beyond her conference participation, HE Nusseibeh engaged in discussions with EU officials, Members of the European Parliament, and esteemed diplomats from Europe and the Middle East.
The UAE’s participation in the Ninth Brussels Conference underlined its commitment to supporting Syria through a peaceful transition. Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh’s emphasis on inclusive processes, particularly the role of women in peace negotiations, reinforces the UAE’s advocacy for sustainable solutions. The commitment of funds and calls for cooperation against extremism reflect the UAE’s ongoing dedication to the stability and sovereignty of Syria.
Original Source: www.mofaic.gov.ae
