BRUSSELS: European experts are advocating for stronger cooperation between the European Union and Trkiye to ensure stability in Syria, emphasizing that the EU should take an active role in resolving the ongoing crisis to prevent potential risks to both Europe and the Middle East. According to Anadolu Agency, Velina Tchakarova, founder of FACE and a geopolitical strategist, highlighted the significance of a recent phone call between EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The conversation underscored the importance of maintaining Syria's territorial integrity and protecting its minorities. Tchakarova urged the EU to move beyond mere dialogue and take concrete actions on the ground. "The EU risks becoming a passive observer again," she stated. As von der Leyen prepares to meet with Erdogan next week, Tchakarova emphasized the need for the EU to focus on actionable steps aligned with shared goals to stabilize the region through cooperation with Trkiye. This inclu des supporting institutions for the safe return of displaced Syrians. The EU Commission President's upcoming visit to Trkiye aims to further discuss developments in Syria, following the recent upheaval in the country. On November 27, clashes erupted between anti-regime groups and Assad regime forces, leading to the fall of the Baath Party regime, which had governed Syria since 1963. Bashar Assad and his family have since fled to Russia after anti-regime factions took control of Damascus. Another perspective on the crisis was provided by Donato Di Bartolomeo, a Middle East expert at the European University Institute. In an interview with Anadolu, he noted that many Syrians previously oppressed by the Assad regime are now looking towards the Syrian group HTS for hope. Although HTS has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries and organizations, including the US, UK, UN, and Trkiye, its leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani has been attempting to rebrand the group as a more moderate force in Syr ia. Di Bartolomeo suggested that al-Jolani's leadership in Idlib could serve as a "model" for Syria's future, emphasizing the need for a peaceful transition that avoids further violence. He also pointed out that von der Leyen's visit underscores Trkiye's critical role in the EU's strategy for the region.