Turkey has requested the EU to lift sanctions on Syria unconditionally, aligning with the new interim authorities ahead of an EU-hosted aid conference. The easing of sanctions aims to facilitate recovery post-civil war, while concerns about the new government’s commitment to democracy and minority rights persist. Turkish officials stress the importance of economic opportunities for stability, calling for reconstruction to support returning refugees.
On March 16, 2025, Turkey urged the European Union to unconditionally lift its sanctions on Syria, citing the need for such action ahead of an international aid conference in Brussels. This appeal comes as the new authorities in Syria, who recently ousted President Bashar al-Assad, are seeking support for a peaceful transition in the war-torn nation.
The European Union will host the ninth international conference in support of Syria, during which the interim authorities will participate for the first time. The focus of the conference is to garner international backing for Syria’s recovery and societal transition following over a decade of civil unrest.
In preparation for this conference, the EU previously announced a reduction in sanctions related to Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors to alleviate hardships faced by Ahmed al-Sharaa, the interim president. Nonetheless, concerns remain regarding the potential influence of Sharaa’s Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which played a key role in the regime change.
With hopes for stabilization under Sharaa’s leadership, fears persist due to ongoing violence aimed at the Alawite minority, historically linked to Assad’s regime. EU foreign ministers have expressed that the eased sanctions may be reinstated if the new Syrian leadership fails to uphold commitments to minority rights and democratic reforms.
Turkey’s foreign ministry highlighted the importance of Syria’s economic stability, stating that creating economic opportunities is vital for the country’s future. They asserted, “The sanctions must be lifted unconditionally and for an indeterminate period.” Turkey, hosting nearly three million Syrian refugees, is advocating for reconstruction efforts to facilitate their return. Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz is scheduled to attend the Brussels conference.
In summary, Turkey’s call for the EU to lift sanctions on Syria underscores a push for a peaceful transition and economic recovery in the country following years of civil war. As international support is marshaled through the upcoming Brussels conference, the response to the evolving political landscape and the commitment to minority rights remains crucial for Syria’s future stability. Turkey’s emphasis on economic opportunities reflects its larger humanitarian concerns involving Syrian refugees and reconstruction efforts.
Original Source: www.euractiv.com
