Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa on Friday held talks in Damascus with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, marking a significant step in renewed diplomatic engagement between Syria and the European Union.

According to Syria’s state news agency SANA, the meeting took place at the People’s Palace and focused on civilian protection, inclusive governance, and stabilizing the country after more than a decade of conflict. The talks came as Syrian authorities announced a temporary ceasefire in Aleppo following days of clashes in several northern districts.

“Protecting Civilians Is the Priority”

During the meeting, President al-Sharaa emphasized that safeguarding civilians and restoring normal life across Syria remain the government’s top priorities. He underlined the state’s responsibility to protect all components of Syrian society, explicitly including the Kurdish community, amid ongoing security challenges.

The discussions coincided with developments in Aleppo, where the Defense Ministry said elements of the YPG/SDF encircled in the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods would be transferred within hours to areas east of the Euphrates. Authorities said the move followed a temporary ceasefire declared early Friday after clashes that caused casualties and forced thousands of civilians to flee.

EU Backs Recovery and Reconstruction

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged the EU’s full support for Syria’s recovery and reconstruction, signaling a shift toward deeper engagement with the country’s new leadership.

“After decades of fear and silence, Syrians began a long journey toward hope and renewal,” von der Leyen wrote on X. “Europe will do everything it can to support Syria’s recovery and reconstruction.”

European Council President Antonio Costa echoed that message, saying the visit demonstrated continued European backing for the Syrian people after years of war and hardship. He said the collapse of the Assad regime had opened a window of opportunity, while acknowledging that rebuilding the country would be a long process.