Return of Italian Diplomacy to Damascus: A Step Towards Regime Normalization
Rome's move reveals a growing European trend towards restoring relations with the Syrian regime as a means to address the Syrian crisis implications
November 21, 2024, 9:59 pm

Return of Italian Diplomacy to Damascus: A Step Towards Regime Normalization

إيطاليا

Stefano Ravanan has begun his duties as Chargé d'Affaires of the Italian Embassy in Damascus, announcing his leadership of the diplomatic mission in a move that represents a radical shift in relations with the Syrian regime.

In his first statement, Ravanan emphasized his understanding of the Syrian crisis's complexities, stressing his country's potential role in supporting the Syrian people through the network of civil society organizations operating in the country.

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This development comes after Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced last July his country's decision to appoint an ambassador to Syria, making Italy the first G7 country to resume diplomatic relations with the regime since 2011.

Political analyses indicate that the Italian move reflects growing concerns in Europe about new waves of asylum seekers, with Rome seeking to open communication channels with the Syrian regime to contain refugee flows.

Observers believe that the return of diplomatic relations may pave the way for security and political cooperation in combating irregular migration, amid escalating European fears of more Syrian refugee influx.

This step reflects a shift in European policy towards Syria, as some countries move towards restoring relations with the Syrian regime despite continuing human rights violations, driven by migration and security concerns.

Analysts expect the Italian move to encourage other European countries to take similar positions, as part of a pragmatic policy seeking to achieve specific interests despite human rights criticisms.

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