Saudi Arabia has urged EU diplomats to lift sanctions on Syria during a recent meeting in Riyadh, asserting it would support the nation’s recovery after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Although the interim government promises political reforms, the U.S. and EU remain cautious due to concerns about the new leadership. Discussions about these sanctions are slated for January among EU foreign ministers.
On Sunday, Saudi Arabia convened a meeting with prominent diplomats from the European Union to discuss the situation in Syria, as reported by NBC News. During this session held in Riyadh, Saudi representatives urged their European counterparts to lift sanctions imposed on Syria, emphasizing that such actions would assist in expediting the nation’s recovery and economic revitalization following the ousting of the regime led by Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
However, the United States and European nations remain hesitant in their approach, largely due to the Islamist affiliations of Syria’s new leadership, composed of former rebels who succeeded in deposing Assad. Consequently, these nations articulated that any decision regarding the removal of sanctions would be contingent upon tangible advancements in Syria’s political transition. The interim government has pledged a commitment to establishing a pluralistic and open governance structure, actively seeking international backing to rebuild a nation devastated by nearly fourteen years of civil conflict, which resulted in significant loss of life and mass displacement.
Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, Assad al-Shaybani, was reported to be among the attendees of the meeting. Additionally, Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, announced that EU foreign ministers are scheduled to convene in Brussels at the end of January to deliberate on the potential lifting of sanctions against Syria, signaling a step towards reassessing the situation in the region.
The meeting between Saudi Arabia and EU diplomats reflects the ongoing complexities surrounding Syria’s political and humanitarian crisis following the protracted civil war that began in 2011. The conflict has resulted in severe socioeconomic challenges and significant loss of life, prompting discussions about international sanctions that have hindered the nation’s recovery efforts. The new leadership composed of former rebels invites scrutiny from Western powers regarding their political ideology and approach to governance.
In summary, Saudi Arabia has called for the European Union to reevaluate and potentially lift sanctions against Syria to aid in the country’s recovery following years of civil unrest. While the interim government has made commitments towards a more inclusive political future, the hesitation from the West remains a critical factor influenced by concerns surrounding the new administration’s Islamist ties. Upcoming discussions among EU foreign ministers may further clarify the stance on sanctions as they seek to balance recovery efforts with political realities.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
