Turkey has officially requested the European Union to lift sanctions on Syria as the EU prepares for an international aid conference that will include Syria’s new authorities. This call comes in light of the country’s need for a peaceful transition, economic recovery, and stability following the civil war.
On March 16, 2025, Turkey urged the European Union to unconditionally lift sanctions imposed on Syria in light of an upcoming international aid conference in Brussels, where the new Syrian authorities are expected to participate. Turkey’s foreign ministry emphasized that lifting sanctions is vital for ensuring a “peaceful transition” in Syria following the recent regime change which ousted former President Bashar al-Assad.
The EU will host its ninth international conference aimed at supporting Syria’s transition and recovery after over 13 years of civil war. For the first time, representatives of Syria’s new interim government, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, will be present at the event to seek international support.
On February 24, the European Union announced a limited easing of sanctions affecting Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors to alleviate challenges facing the interim government. However, there is concern among European officials regarding the potential influence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Islamist group that played a pivotal role in the recent overthrow of Assad, on Syria’s future stability.
Despite optimistic views about the new authorities aiding in the country’s stabilization, ongoing violence against the Alawite minority, to which Assad belongs, has brought apprehensions regarding the situation. EU foreign ministers have warned that eased sanctions could be reinstated if the interim leadership fails to uphold promises concerning minority rights and democratic progression.
Turkey’s foreign ministry stressed the necessity of economic security for Syria’s overall stability, declaring that “economic opportunities and jobs need to be created.” It firmly stated that sanctions should be lifted without conditions and for an indefinite period. Additionally, Turkey, which currently accommodates nearly three million Syrian refugees, emphasized the need for reconstruction efforts in Syria to facilitate the return of these individuals. Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz is set to attend the Brussels conference.
In summary, Turkey is advocating for the unconditional lifting of sanctions on Syria to foster a peaceful transition and recovery post-conflict. The upcoming EU-hosted conference presents a significant opportunity for the new Syrian authorities to garner international support, yet concerns linger regarding their ability to establish stability and protect minority rights. Turkey’s involvement and its calls for reconstruction reflect its commitment to supporting the burgeoning governance in Syria, which remains under scrutiny from the international community.
Original Source: www.euractiv.com
