“More than 200 people have been clearly identified or are being identified.... Most have joined the most extremist groups, including the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL)” an Al-Qaeda-linked group, Reynders told the daily La Libre Belgique newspaper on Monday.

“More than 20 have already died in Syria,” the Belgian minister added.

He also voiced concern over security threats the militants posed across Europe “once they return here or elsewhere,” adding, "Not only will they be more radicalized in their commitment but also (acquire) techniques and experience enabling them to do almost anything."

According to a report published by the Associated Press last month, new networks are recruiting the western Europe-based militants and arranging their travel and lodging in Syria.

European countries with the largest contingents in Syria, such as France, Germany, Belgium, and Sweden, have around 1,200 to 1,700 terrorists fighting against Damascus, the report added.

Last May, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said militants from 29 different countries were operating in his country.

The Arab country has been experiencing deadly violence since March 2011. According to reports, the Western powers and their regional allies - especially Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Turkey - are supporting the militants operating inside Syria.

The unrest, which took in terrorist groups from across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, has transpired as one of the bloodiest conflicts in recent history, leaving more than 100,000 dead in nearly three years of conflict.

NTJ/BA