Turkey has requested the EU to lift sanctions on Syria ahead of an aid conference in Brussels. This appeal is based on the belief that lifting sanctions is vital for a peaceful transition post-Assad. The EU has slightly eased sanctions, but caution persists regarding the new leadership’s commitment to reforms. Turkey advocates for economic security and reconstruction to support returning refugees.
On March 16, 2025, Turkey called upon the European Union (EU) to unconditionally lift sanctions imposed on Syria. This request comes as the EU prepares to host an international aid conference in Brussels, where representatives of Syria’s new authorities, which recently overthrew president Bashar al-Assad, have been invited. Turkey’s foreign ministry argues that lifting sanctions is crucial for Syria’s peaceful transition under its new leadership.
The upcoming conference, set for March 17, marks the ninth international gathering focused on supporting Syria. For the first time, delegates from the interim government established after Assad’s ousting will participate. The event’s objective is to garner international backing for Syria’s recovery from over 13 years of armed conflict.
Earlier, on February 24, the EU announced a slight relaxation of sanctions targeting Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors. This decision aims to alleviate some pressures on Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new interim president of Syria. However, the EU and other international stakeholders remain cautious about the potential influence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Islamist group instrumental in the regime change.
Concerns linger over Sharaa’s ability to stabilize Syria amidst violent clashes involving the Alawite minority, aligning with Assad’s background. EU foreign ministers have cautioned that existing sanctions could be reinstated if the new Syrian leadership fails to uphold commitments to minority rights and democratic reforms.
Turkey’s statement emphasized the critical role of Syria’s economic security in establishing national stability. It stressed the necessity for job creation and economic opportunities, asserting that “the sanctions must be lifted unconditionally and for an indeterminate period.” Moreover, Turkey, hosting nearly three million Syrian refugees, is advocating for Syria’s reconstruction to facilitate the return of displaced individuals. Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz is scheduled to represent Turkey at the Brussels conference.
Turkey is urging the EU to lift sanctions on Syria, citing their significance in ensuring a peaceful transition under the new interim government. The upcoming EU-hosted conference aims to support Syria recovery efforts following extensive civil conflict. While there are cautious optimism about the new leadership, significant concerns about minority rights and stability remain, with potential sanctions ready to be reinstated if promises are not kept.
Original Source: www.euractiv.com
