The EU’s foreign affairs chief calls for the ongoing lifting of sanctions on Syria to restore hope after sectarian killings. Despite the need for accountability for recent violence, the EU aims to support basic services and economic recovery, stressing the importance of an inclusive political process.
On December 16, 2024, Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign affairs chief, urged the bloc to continue lifting sanctions on Syria, emphasizing the need to instill hope in the struggling population following a wave of sectarian killings. She noted that easing punitive measures would require “difficult discussions” while highlighting the importance of accountability within the Syrian leadership for recent atrocities.
Kallas elaborated that prolonged despair in Syria could lead to increased chaos, stating, “What it shows is really that we need to continue with the lifting of sanctions, because if there is hope for the people then there is also less chaos.” The EU has partially lifted sanctions to stimulate economic investment, but these measures may be reinstated if the new leaders fail to respect the rule of law or neglect minority inclusivity.
The EU condemned last week’s sectarian violence, where at least 1,400 Alawites were killed, calling for accountability from the interim government led by President Ahmad Al Shara. European diplomats expressed a cautious approach, underscoring the significance of accountability as a prerequisite for reducing violence in the nation.
Recent violence erupted after Assad loyalists attacked new government security forces, leading to retaliatory strikes primarily against Alawite civilians, many of whom had no ties to the prior regime. Despite this turmoil, the EU invited Syrian interim Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani to the donor conference, marking a shift in approach toward engagement with the Syrian government since the fall of Assad.
Germany pledged €300 million to support humanitarian efforts in Syria, highlighting the need for an inclusive political process. The previous donor conference raised €7.5 billion, illustrating significant international support for Syria’s recovery and stability. However, the United States maintains its sanctions, deterring potential investments due to regulatory concerns.
The EU’s strategic priority remains aiding the population in accessing basic services and employment opportunities, amidst dire living conditions exacerbated by the civil war. Proposed solutions like cash-for-work programs could provide temporary employment, contingent on achieving stability in the region. A senior EU official remarked on the importance of recognizing and addressing the challenges posed by recent sectarian violence, but expressed cautious optimism regarding the interim government’s responsiveness.
In conclusion, the European Union is advocating for the continued lifting of sanctions on Syria as a means to foster hope and stability within a war-torn society reeling from recent violence. The emphasis on accountability for sectarian killings demonstrates a critical aspect of the EU’s strategy to engage with the interim government, while also outlining humanitarian goals aimed at restoring essential services and enabling economic recovery. Ultimately, fostering an inclusive political process is essential for long-term peace and development in Syria.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
