In 2010 Syria marks the 10th year of Bashar al-Assad's Presidency. During this decade Syria has prioritised economic rather than political reform, working towards creating a ‘social market economy’ with reform measures that have included the liberalisation of banking, prices and trade. The challenges facing Syria in this process include coping with the social effects of the economic transition, as well as to maintain a strong economic growth and develop the non-oil sectors in the economy.

Today the EU is Syria’s largest donor and a keen supporter of their reform agenda. After years of putting the association agreement on hold, the EU made a move towards closer relationships with Syria in October 2009 by formally agreeing to proceed with the signature of the Association Agreement – Syria's agreement is still pending. A visit to Damascus, will offer 15 reporters further insight into the current situation in Syria and the state of EU-Syria relations.

This briefing is part of a European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) series of eight events organised with the financial support of European Commission’s DG External Relations.

Developed in 2004, the ENP provides a framework for the EU to work with neighbouring countries by offering support and financial assistance in exchange for the undertaking of reforms in line with European values. The hope is that these reforms lead to closer political and economic integration between the neighbouring state and the EU, contributing to a safe and stable European neighbourhood.

This workshop includes a one-day programme in Brussels followed by an intensive study tour to Syria. The briefing will examine the ENP’s state of play, the EU’s relations with Syria, as well as its political and economic dynamics through meetings, panel discussions, lectures and field visits. Participating reporters will be briefed by a wide range of sources featuring EU officials, diplomats, local authorities, civil society organisations, independent experts, NGOs and journalists.

Applications are open to EU professional working journalists

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