Belgian EU Commissioner, Hadja Lahbib, arrived in the Syrian capital of Damascus on Friday.
She is the first member of the European Commission to visit Syria and meet the new authorities since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime.
"Arrived in Damascus, Syria, a country bubbling with hope and optimism for a brighter future. But also with immense needs – nearly 17 million people need humanitarian aid. I am here to make sure these people get the urgent help they need," Lahbib posted on X.
She has scheduled meetings with the new authorities, NGOs and civil society members to discuss how European aid can be improved.
The EU will release a new humanitarian aid package worth €235 million for Syria and neighbouring countries, with €142.5 million allocated for projects in Syria.
Before leaving for Syria, Lahbib informed the press that her primary message to the authorities would be a call for a peaceful and inclusive transition, preserving territorial integrity and respecting human rights. "As European Commissioner for Equality, I will emphasise the need to protect women and ethnic and religious minorities," she said.
Lahbib also mentioned that initial signs from the new authorities are positive. "We expect much from this new Syria, hoping for changes that will finally recognise the Syrians in their great diversity. This must not become an Assad-regime 2.0."
The discussions with the authorities will also cover the sanctions the EU imposed on Syria in 2011. The EU aims to lift these sanctions gradually to facilitate the country's reconstruction. However, Lahbib insists that this will only happen if there is an "inclusive Syria" that respects all minorities.
Earlier this month, German and French foreign ministers Annalena Baerbock and Jean-Noël Barrot visited Syria on behalf of the EU. They advocated for a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria.
Their visit was marred by the transitional Prime Minister Ahmed al-Sharaa's refusal to shake Baerbock's hand. Later, the female minister was censored on a television channel linked to the new regime.
