The visit by European ministers symbolizes a significant shift in international diplomacy following years of strained relations between Europe and Syria.

Berlin on Monday advocated a pragmatic approach to Syria's transitional government after the new leader in Damascus declined to shake the hand of visiting German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.

WASHINGTON—The Biden administration said Monday it is easing restrictions on humanitarian aid for Syria for six months, a move to speed delivery of basic supplies without lifting sanctions that block other assistance to the new government in Damascus.

Syria’s new foreign minister has met with his Qatari counterpart and Qatar’s prime minister in Doha on Sunday.

WASHINGTON — A month after the rebel offensive that toppled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the United States announced a 6-month waiver to ease the delivery of humanitarian aid to the heavily sanctioned country.

France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock emerged from talks with Syria's de facto leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, stressing their hopes that he will construct a more inclusive society than previous ruler Bashar-al Assad.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced in Damascus that Europe will not fund new Islamist structures in Syria, following talks with the country's leader Ahmed al-Sharaa.

All Syrian groups, including women and Kurds, must be involved in the country's transition if Damascus wants European support, Germany's foreign minister said after a closely-watched first meeting with the new de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa on Friday.

The European Union will closely watch the political process developing in Syria and stand by the country if it moves toward a peaceful and open future but it will not back Syria's Islamization, Germany's foreign minister said on Friday.

France’s foreign minister, who is in Damascus with his German counterpart, said Friday there is “real hope” for Syria, “but it is a fragile hope.”

During her visit to Damascus, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock outlined clear conditions for European support of Syria's new leadership and emphasized that Germany and the European Union are committed to fostering a peaceful and free future for Syria.