Denmark announced an additional $76 million in support for Syria’s recovery and stability and resumed operations at its embassy in Damascus after 14 years of closure.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani attended the embassy’s reopening ceremony. Rasmussen said the funding would be used for early recovery, support for stability and the return of refugees to their country.
Asaad al-Shaibani described the reopening as “a new page” in relations between Syria and Denmark. Al-Shaibani said he hoped the move would encourage broader engagement and investment in Syria by European countries.
Rasmussen said Syrians who had sought refuge in Denmark could contribute to the rebuilding process as they returned to their country, drawing on their knowledge, skills and experience.
After the ceremony, the Danish foreign minister met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the People’s Palace in Damascus. According to the Syrian Presidency, the sides discussed strengthening bilateral relations, cooperation in recovery and reconstruction, and efforts to support stability in Syria.