Turkey has urged the EU to unconditionally lift sanctions on Syria ahead of an international aid conference. The call is intended to support the new interim authorities established after the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. The EU is cautious but has eased some sanctions while monitoring the new leadership’s commitment to democracy and minority rights.
On Sunday, Turkey urged the European Union (EU) to unconditionally lift sanctions imposed on Syria in anticipation of an international aid conference in Brussels, which will see the participation of Syria’s new authorities. The Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized that the removal of sanctions is vital for a “peaceful transition” within Syria following the establishment of new governance after the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad.
The EU is set to host its ninth international conference aimed at supporting Syria, with the new interim authorities being invited for the first time. This event seeks to gather international aid for Syria’s recovery and transition following over 13 years of civil war. Previously, on February 24, the EU had announced a slight easing of sanctions targeting Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors to assist interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Despite the easing of certain sanctions, the EU and other international entities remain cautious about the potential direction of al-Sharaa’s Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which was integral to the offensive leading to Assad’s ousting. While there is optimism regarding the new government’s potential to stabilize Syria and promote inclusivity, ongoing violence against the Alawite minority has raised significant concerns.
EU foreign ministers have indicated that the recently eased sanctions could be reinstated should Syria’s new leadership fail to uphold commitments regarding minority rights and democratic progress. The Turkish Foreign Ministry maintained that “Syria’s economic security is essential for the country’s stability and security,” underscoring the need for job creation and economic opportunities. Turkey reiterated its call for the unconditional lifting of sanctions, citing the reconstruction of Syria as essential to facilitating the return of nearly three million Syrian refugees currently residing in Turkey.
Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz from Turkey is scheduled to attend the Brussels conference, representing Ankara’s interests in the discussions.
To summarize, Turkey has called for the EU to lift sanctions on Syria unconditionally, emphasizing its importance for the country’s transitional stability. The upcoming international conference in Brussels aims to support Syria’s recovery efforts, marking the first participation of the interim government. While there are cautious hopes regarding Syria’s future, vigilance remains regarding the actions of its new leadership. Turkey advocates for economic reconstruction to aid refugee returns and bolster security.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
