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Italy Leads Efforts to Change European Policy Towards Damascus Regime
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EU efforts to communicate with Syrian regime represent a new diplomatic turning point, focusing on refugee file as an entry point for normalizing relations
Italian newspaper "Il Foglio" revealed Rome's success in convincing the European Union to appoint a special envoy to Syria, highlighting the selection of former Austrian ambassador Christian Berger for the position.
The newspaper detailed the assignment by EU foreign policy representative Josep Borrell of the Austrian diplomat as EU special envoy to Syria.
The report highlighted Berger's extensive experience in Syrian affairs, noting his previous position as EU ambassador to Turkey and his current role in Egypt, which he is preparing to leave after four years.
The newspaper considered the European decision a result of Italian diplomatic efforts in Brussels, noting Rome's pivotal role in efforts to normalize relations with the Syrian regime.
The newspaper revealed efforts to convince German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to recognize "safe zones" in Syria for refugee return, confirming Berlin's openness to dialogue with the Syrian regime regarding migration.
European Commission Foreign Affairs spokesperson Nabila Massrali announced the Commission's efforts to appoint a special envoy to Syria, coinciding with efforts by eight European countries to restore communication with Damascus.
The announcement coincided with European discussions on the Syrian file, as Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, who advocates reviewing European policies towards Syria, held meetings with European leaders to urge them to support refugee return.
It's worth noting that the appointment of a European special envoy to Syria comes amid regional and international shifts towards Damascus, as recent months have witnessed Arab initiatives to restore relations with the Syrian regime.
The European Union faces increasing pressure to find solutions for Syrian refugees, who number over one million in Germany alone, pushing some member states to seek new approaches in dealing with Damascus.
Levant-Agencies
