At the EU’s March 2025 Syria reconstruction conference, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani uses cultural diplomacy to rebuild trust and foster international support, offering a symbolic gift that ushers in a new narrative of hope and collaboration.
The grand halls of the Brussels conference centre buzzed with anticipation last week, as for the first time in nearly a decade, a representative from the Syrian government, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, was seated among diplomats and aid workers. His presence was a poignant symbol of the fragile transition taking place in Syria, signaling a tentative step toward reconciliation after years of isolation and conflict.
The European Union hosted its 9th international Conference in support of Syria. As per the Middle East Monitor, “an invite was sent” to Syria’s new Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani for attendance at the Commission’s donor conference on 17 March in support of the recently-liberated country.
The conference, titled “Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition,” was designed to discuss the rebuilding of the war-torn nation. While the official focus was on financial aid and recovery, the event also subtly spotlighted a broader, more delicate aspect of reconstruction—cultural diplomacy. Syria’s ancient heritage, which had been ravaged by years of violence, was emerging as an essential part of the rebuilding process, both symbolically and practically.
The EU is reported to have pledged a total of 5.8 billion euros ($6.3bn) for Syria, with 4.2 billion euros ($4.6bn) in grants and 1.6 billion euros ($1.75bn) in loans. EU Commissioner Dubravka Suica confirmed the EU’s commitment to providing 2.5 billion euros ($2.7bn) in aid.
Minister Al-Shibani spoke of Syria’s rich cultural history, highlighting its poets, artisans, musicians, and scholars. His message urged the world to recognize not only the destruction but also the resilience and beauty of Syria’s heritage.
To reinforce this message, Al-Shibani presented a small, intricately carved wooden box as a gift to the European delegation. The box, crafted in Damascus, symbolised the enduring craftsmanship of Syria’s artisans, a nod to a tradition that had survived centuries of turmoil. The gesture was understated but powerful—offering not just a physical object, but a story of cultural survival amidst the devastation.
According to reports, the room fell silent as diplomats, familiar with Syria’s war-torn image, absorbed Al-Shibani’s words and the display of Syrian craftsmanship, offering a glimpse of the nation’s enduring history, art, and spirit.
European officials, cautious but receptive, responded with solidarity. Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, said: “The EU stands with the Syrian people on their path to recovery, peace, and a secure future. The dire humanitarian crisis in Syria and the region has not vanished with the fall of the regime. Today we have a historic chance to reset, recover and rebuild. I witnessed first-hand the huge potential these developments bring for Syria and the entire region. The EU will continue its strong support for an inclusive Syrian transition.”
A passionate advocate for the preservation of cultural heritage, she spoke of the universal language of art, music, and shared human experience. Lahbib also emphasised the EU’s commitment to restoring Syria’s cultural sites, reviving ancient libraries, and supporting traditional crafts.
It was a moment of mutual understanding, where cultural preservation was seen not just as an act of goodwill, but as a means of bridging divides and building trust.
The conference featured an exhibition of Syrian art and photography, showcasing the resilience and beauty of the people.
Vibrant paintings and poignant images, alongside melancholic oud music, highlighted Syria’s enduring culture.
Despite the challenges ahead, the event marked a hopeful beginning, with cultural diplomacy paving the way for healing, understanding, and a more peaceful future.
