Turkey has requested the EU to lift sanctions on Syria to support its new government ahead of an international aid conference in Brussels, viewing this move as essential for a peaceful transition. EU’s easing of some sanctions has raised concerns over the new leadership’s commitment to democracy and minority rights. The Turkish foreign ministry emphasizes economic security and job creation as vital for stabilization.
On March 16, 2025, Turkey urged the European Union (EU) to unconditionally lift sanctions imposed on Syria, prior to an international aid conference in Brussels that the new Syrian authorities will attend. The Turkish foreign ministry indicated that removing sanctions is crucial for ensuring a “peaceful transition” in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in December by new governance in the country.
The EU is set to host its ninth international conference to support Syria, which marks the first occasion on which representatives from Syria’s newly established interim government have been invited. This conference seeks to generate international backing for Syria’s recovery and progress after over 13 years of civil conflict.
On February 24, the EU had already signaled an easing of sanctions pertinent to Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors to alleviate difficulties for interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. However, European nations continue to express reservations regarding the direction of al-Sharaa’s Islamist faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), following its significant role in the coup against Assad.
While there are optimistic projections for stabilization and inclusivity under al-Sharaa, ongoing violence against the Alawite minority, traditionally associated with Assad, raises concerns. EU foreign ministers have cautioned that any renewal of eased sanctions could occur if the new Syrian leadership fails to uphold commitments toward safeguarding minority rights and progressing democratically.
Turkey’s foreign ministry underscored the vital importance of Syria’s economic stability for overall national security, emphasizing the necessity for the creation of jobs and economic prospects. They asserted that sanctions should be lifted unconditionally for an indefinite duration, stressing the need for reconstruction to facilitate the return of nearly three million Syrian refugees currently sheltered in Turkey. Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz is scheduled to participate in the Brussels conference.
In conclusion, Turkey’s call for the EU to lift sanctions on Syria highlights the critical need for international support as the country navigates its transition post-conflict. As the Brussels conference approaches, the situation remains delicate, with the potential for further sanctions if commitments regarding minority rights and democratic principles are not observed. Turkey’s advocacy emphasizes the urgency of economic stabilization and reconstruction to facilitate the return of refugees.
Original Source: www.euractiv.com
