Turkey urges the EU to lift sanctions on Syria unconditionally, viewing it as essential for a peaceful transition amidst ongoing international support efforts. The upcoming Brussels conference will feature Syria’s interim government for the first time, as discussions focus on recovery after years of civil war. While some sanctions have been eased, concerns remain regarding the political direction and minority rights under new leadership.
Turkey has recently urged the European Union to lift sanctions on Syria unconditionally, highlighting the need for a smoother transition towards peace in the region. This appeal comes ahead of the upcoming international aid conference in Brussels, which will see the participation of Syria’s new ruling authorities who succeeded Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
The European Union is set to host its ninth international conference aimed at supporting Syria’s recovery and transition after over thirteen years of civil strife. In a notable first, members of the new interim Syrian government will join the discussions, signaling a shift in international engagement with Syria’s political landscape.
Earlier this year, on February 24, the EU announced a slight easing of sanctions related to Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors, intended to alleviate the economic strains facing Ahmed al-Sharaa, the interim president of Syria. Despite this, there remains caution in Europe regarding the future actions of Sharaa’s Islamist faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which played a pivotal role in the removal of Assad’s regime.
The situation in Syria remains precarious, with recent violent incidents aimed at the Alawite minority, which has led to uncertainty about the potential for stability under the new authorities. EU foreign ministers have expressed that any future violations of commitments to minority rights and democratic progress could lead to reinstating the eased sanctions.
Turkey’s foreign ministry emphasized that “Syria’s economic security is essential for the country’s stability and security,” advocating for the unconditional lifting of sanctions to foster job creation and economic opportunities. Additionally, Turkey, which currently hosts close to three million Syrian refugees, stressed the importance of reconstructing Syria to facilitate the return of these individuals.
Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz is expected to participate in the Brussels conference to further discuss these matters.
Turkey has called for the EU to unconditionally lift sanctions on Syria, framing it as necessary for the country’s transition to stability following years of conflict. As the EU prepares for an aid conference that includes representatives of Syria’s interim government, concerns remain about the influence of extremist groups and the rights of minorities. Turkey’s emphasis on economic recovery highlights the importance of international assistance in rebuilding Syria and addressing the refugee crisis.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
