Qatar has called for the quick lifting of sanctions on Syria following the ousting of President Bashar Assad. Foreign ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari emphasized that the reasons for the sanctions are no longer applicable. Qatar’s recent diplomatic engagements with Syria illustrate a change in its approach, while the international community continues to deliberate on the issue.
Qatar has urged for the swift lifting of international sanctions imposed on Syria following the removal of President Bashar Assad by Islamist-led rebels. Majed Al-Ansari, spokesperson for the Qatari foreign ministry, emphasized the necessity of expediting these efforts during a regular press briefing. This call for action was made shortly after a high-ranking Qatari delegation visited Damascus and coincided with the reopening of the Qatari embassy there, signaling the end of a prolonged diplomatic rift that lasted 13 years.
Al-Ansari reiterated Qatar’s stance, stating that since the conditions that prompted the sanctions are no longer present, it is imperative to lift them. He attributed the sanctions to the actions of the former regime under Assad. Qatar has been a significant supporter of the armed opposition in Syria, which emerged after the brutal suppression of a peaceful uprising in 2011. Unlike many neighboring countries, Qatar has remained critical of Assad and has thus far refrained from restoring diplomatic relations, despite Syria’s reintegration into the Arab diplomatic community last year.
The international community has been hesitant to lift sanctions, preferring to observe how the new leadership in Syria exercises their authority and governance.
Overall, Qatar’s recent diplomatic engagements and its calls to end sanctions reflect its evolving strategy toward Syria, albeit amid broader geopolitical considerations.
The sanctions on Syria were primarily enacted in response to the violent repression of protests against President Bashar Assad’s regime that began in 2011. Initially supportive of the opposition, Qatar’s position has been critical of Assad, especially post-2011 when the conflict transitioned from peaceful protests to armed rebellion. Qatar’s recent diplomatic efforts include the reopening of its embassy in Syria, marking a significant shift in relations after years of conflict and criticism. The international approach to sanctions remains cautious, contingent upon the new authorities’ actions in Syria.
In conclusion, Qatar has made a clear call for the quick lifting of sanctions on Syria, emphasizing that the basis for these sanctions has dissipated with the fall of the Assad regime. This position aligns with Qatar’s historical support for the Syrian opposition and marks a notable diplomatic shift following the reopening of its embassy. However, the international community remains cautious, awaiting clarity on the new regime’s governance.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
