The inaugural session of the People’s Assembly in Syria marks another welcome step in the country’s political transition.

The People’s Assembly is expected to play a crucial role in responding to the legitimate aspirations of all components of the Syrian society.

As part of a Syrian-owned and Syrian-led political transition, and within its mandate, one of its major tasks will be to adopt a new Constitution and contribute to substantial reforms for the future of Syria.

The success of the political transition will depend, among other things, on the Assembly’s ability to pave the way towards an inclusive political system, grounded in rule of law, political pluralism and transparent elections, enabling the participation of all Syrians without any discrimination on any ground, and upholding their human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The adoption of measures to build functioning and representative public institutions and to advance accountability and transitional justice will be key for national reconciliation and long-term stability.

The EU remains fully committed to a peaceful, stable and inclusive Syrian transition, as well as to the recovery and reconstruction of the country, accompanied by humanitarian aid, to provide basic services to people in need.

The European Union and its Member states stand ready to engage with the People’s Assembly and its members, both to support capacity building and good governance and to work together towards achieving common goals, including ensuring respect for international law and the UN Charter. We reiterate our commitment to deepen EU-Syria partnership to the benefit of the Syrian people, to move towards a possible future Association Agreement, as well as the full reintegration of Syria into the Euro-Mediterranean space and in the global trade and connectivity networks.