Turkey has urged the European Union to lift sanctions on Syria ahead of an international aid conference, citing the need for a peaceful transition following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. The EU recently eased some sanctions but remains cautious regarding the new leadership’s direction amidst ongoing violence against minorities.
On March 16, 2025, Turkey urged the European Union to remove sanctions on Syria without conditions, as the international community prepares for a critical aid conference in Brussels. This call comes in light of the recent leadership changes in Syria, where the new authorities, having ousted President Bashar al-Assad in December, are seen as key to a peaceful transition by Ankara.
The EU is set to host its ninth international conference on Syria, marking the first time representatives from the new Syrian government, led by interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa, have been invited. The event’s objective is to bolster international support for Syria’s recovery after over thirteen years of civil war.
In a recent shift, the European Union announced the easing of sanctions on Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors to alleviate challenges faced by the new leadership. However, there remains caution regarding the future actions of Sharaa’s governing coalition, which is associated with the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), responsible for the recent regime change in Syria.
Despite the potential for stability under Sharaa’s leadership, ongoing violence against the Alawite minority has raised concerns about the country’s future. EU foreign ministers have cautioned that sanctions could be reinstated should the new authorities fail to uphold minority rights and democratic principles.
Turkey’s foreign ministry emphasized the critical role of Syria’s economic security in fostering national stability. They stated, “Economic opportunities and jobs need to be created” to support reconstruction efforts and facilitate the return of nearly three million Syrian refugees currently residing in Turkey. Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz will represent Turkey at the upcoming Brussels conference.
Turkey’s appeal for the unconditional lifting of EU sanctions on Syria highlights the complexities of the country’s transitional phase following the regime change. While international support is crucial for Syria’s recovery, concerns remain about the capacity of new authorities to ensure stability, democracy, and minority rights. The outcome of the Brussels conference will be pivotal for Syria’s future reconstruction and governance.
Original Source: www.euractiv.com
