Turkey has urged the EU to unconditionally lift sanctions on Syria to promote a peaceful transition amid ongoing humanitarian crises. The upcoming conference will feature the Syrian interim government for the first time, aiming to rally international support for reconstruction efforts. Turkey emphasizes that economic recovery is vital for stability, while the EU continues to play a significant role as a humanitarian donor.
Turkey has formally requested the European Union to lift sanctions on Syria without conditions, ahead of the 9th International Conference on Syria set for March 17, 2025. This request underscores Turkey’s urgency for facilitating a “peaceful transition” amidst the evolving political landscape following the departure of former President Bashar al-Assad, highlighting its implications for stability in the region.
The upcoming conference will mark a notable event, as it will see participation from representatives of Syria’s interim government, which recently assumed power. The intent of this conference is to bolster international support for Syria’s reconstruction and recovery efforts, while also addressing pressing humanitarian challenges that the war-torn nation faces.
Turkey’s foreign ministry emphasized that “Syria’s economic security is fundamental for the stability and security of the country,” urging that sanctions must be lifted unconditionally. This stance captures Turkey’s belief that economic growth and job creation are essential to foster lasting stability in the region.
In line with this, the EU recently announced a gradual easing of sanctions specifically within Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors. Turkey underscores the significance of reconstruction efforts, especially as it hosts around three million Syrian refugees, advocating for their safe repatriation alongside the country’s recovery process.
Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz will lead Turkey’s delegation at the Brussels conference, where he is expected to articulate the critical need for international assistance. He will stress that removing economic sanctions is vital to advancing recovery strategies and creating a conducive environment for returning refugees.
The conference not only serves as a venue for financial commitments, but also as a significant moment for enhancing relations with newly established Syrian authorities. High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas noted the heightened humanitarian crisis exacerbated by recent violence, while also recognizing potential opportunities arising from regional agreements.
Despite recognizing the challenges at hand, Kallas spoke to the historic potential that this conference presents for Syria’s future. An agreement reached on March 10, 2025, between Syrian Interim authorities and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces is seen as a step towards collaboration, indicating a roadway to enhanced support for the Syrian populace.
The role of the EU remains critical, as it has consistently been the largest humanitarian donor since the onset of the Syrian civil war, contributing over €35 billion (about $38.2 billion) in aid. This conference is crucial not only for financial pledges, but also for maintaining international focus on Syria’s lengthy recovery journey.
Hadja Lahbib, the Commissioner for Equality, reiterated the importance of prioritizing recovery and stability. She affirmed the EU’s commitment to stand alongside Syrian citizens in their pursuit of a peaceful and secure future, highlighting the necessity of global collaboration for impactful reform and support.
Syria’s recovery is challenged by vast humanitarian needs, with estimates indicating that 16.5 million individuals require assistance, including 12.9 million in need of food aid. The enduring impacts of conflict have severely damaged the economy and deteriorated living conditions for many citizens.
The Brussels conference will convene officials from various nations and international organizations, all focused on aiding Syria’s transition. The event is expected to generate pledges that go beyond financial aid, fostering comprehensive improvements across multiple sectors to facilitate holistic recovery efforts amidst Turkey’s urgent call to remove sanctions unconditionally, representing a broader aspiration for stability and peace within Syria.
In summary, Turkey’s call for the unconditional lifting of sanctions on Syria emphasizes the need for international support ahead of the upcoming Brussels conference. With the inclusion of the Syrian interim government’s representatives, the conference aims to address humanitarian needs and facilitate economic recovery. The EU’s role as the largest donor remains pivotal, with anticipated commitments aimed at enhancing stability in Syria during this critical transition period.
Original Source: evrimagaci.org
