European Union foreign ministers are set to discuss easing sanctions imposed on Syria, the bloc’s foreign policy chief said. The meeting will take place in Brussels later this month, and ministers will consider lifting restrictions on individuals and entities linked to the country’s government.
The move comes after the overthrow of President Bashar Assad last month, with new rulers promising to hold a national dialogue summit to agree upon a political road map leading to a new constitution and election. However, the EU has been cautious about easing sanctions due to concerns over the Islamist roots of the former insurgents who drove Assad out of power.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said that while some sanctions must remain in place, a “smart approach” is needed to provide rapid relief for the Syrian population. Saudi Arabia and Turkey have also called for the lifting of sanctions, citing the need to support Syria’s recovery from nearly 14 years of civil war.
The US has already eased some restrictions on Syria, with the Treasury issuing a general license allowing certain transactions with the government. The EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, said that ministers will examine how to ease sanctions in a “tangible and inclusive” way, reflecting the country’s diversity.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/syria-war-diplomacy-sanctions-saudi-conference-3c9280884435f1dd21c092c392a8eab9