The European Union (EU) will not lift sanctions on Syria until the country’s new rulers ensure the rights of minorities and women are protected, said Kaja Kallas, the EU’s top diplomat. Kallas, speaking at a conference in Jordan, emphasized that “words” are not enough and that action is needed to address concerns about human rights.
Kallas stressed that the EU will continue to provide humanitarian aid to Syria but will not consider expanding financial support unless conditions improve. She also called for accountability for those responsible for human rights abuses under the previous regime.
The EU’s tough sanctions regime against Syria remains in place, including restrictions on the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which played a key role in the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad. Kallas warned that “deeds” must match “words” when it comes to addressing these concerns.
Kallas’ comments come after regional and Western powers discussed Syria’s post-Assad future at the conference. The EU has already provided significant humanitarian aid to Syria, but Kallas said more needs to be done without giving the new government a “blank cheque”.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/syria-sanctions-relief-premature-now-top-eu-official-says-2024-12-15