Turkey has urged the European Union to lift sanctions on Syria unconditionally, linking it to the country’s peaceful transition and recovery. This request precedes a significant international aid conference in Brussels where the new Syrian authorities will participate for the first time. While some sanctions were eased, uncertainty about the interim government’s direction remains amidst ongoing violence and concerns for minority rights.
Turkey has called on the European Union to unconditionally lift sanctions imposed on Syria, coinciding with an upcoming international aid conference in Brussels that includes representatives from the newly established Syrian authorities. Ankara, aligned with Syria’s interim government, emphasized that removing sanctions is crucial for facilitating a peaceful transition in the war-torn nation, as stated by Turkey’s foreign ministry.
The EU is set to conduct its ninth international conference in support of Syria, with the new interim authorities attending for the first time. The conference aims to garner international backing for Syria’s transition and recovery following over 13 years of civil conflict.
On February 24, the European Union announced a partial easing of sanctions on Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors, aimed at easing the challenges faced by Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s interim president. Despite this move, caution remains due to concerns surrounding the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which led the offensive against Assad’s regime.
While there are hopes that Sharaa’s leadership could stabilize Syria and promote an inclusive future, recent violent events against the Alawite minority, linked to Assad, have raised doubts about the situation’s trajectory. EU foreign ministers have cautioned that sanctions may be reinstated if the new leaders fail to uphold minority rights or demonstrate a genuine commitment to democracy.
Turkey’s foreign ministry stressed, “Syria’s economic security is essential for the country’s stability and security,” underscoring the need for job creation and economic opportunities. They urged the unconditional lifting of sanctions without any predetermined timeframe. Furthermore, Turkey has expressed the necessity for reconstruction efforts to encourage the return of nearly three million Syrian refugees currently hosted in Turkey. Turkish deputy foreign minister Nuh Yilmaz is set to participate in the Brussels conference.
In summary, Turkey’s call for the European Union to lift sanctions on Syria reflects its support for the new Syrian interim authorities and aims to facilitate recovery and stability in the region. The upcoming EU conference is crucial for international support, yet concerns linger over the potential actions of those in power. Turkey emphasizes the importance of economic security, reconstruction, and comprehensive integration for the future of Syria as they anticipate further dialogue with European counterparts.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
