Turkey Advocates for Lifting EU Sanctions on Syria for Recovery Efforts

Turkey has called for the EU to unconditionally lift sanctions on Syria to enhance stability and support recovery efforts. This request comes ahead of an international aid conference where Syria’s new authorities will participate for the first time. Turkey emphasizes the necessity of economic security and job creation in the context of reconstruction and refugee return.

Turkey has appealed to the European Union to remove all sanctions imposed on Syria, aiming for a stable transition in the war-torn nation ahead of an international aid conference in Brussels. The Turkish government, allied with Syria’s new leadership following the removal of former president Bashar al-Assad in December, believes that lifting sanctions is essential to facilitate peace and recovery in Syria.

On Monday, the EU will conduct its ninth international conference focused on aiding Syria, where representatives from the newly established interim authority will participate for the first time. This meeting seeks to garner international backing for Syria’s recovery process following over thirteen years of civil conflict.

In February, the EU announced some relaxation of sanctions affecting Syria’s energy, transport, and banking sectors, intended to support interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa. Nonetheless, there remains apprehension regarding the direction of Sharaa’s Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which played a pivotal role in the recent upheaval against Assad.

While there is optimism about the potential for Sharaa’s administration to stabilize Syria and foster inclusivity, ongoing violence against the Alawite minority raises concerns. EU officials have indicated that any violations related to minority rights or democratic commitments could result in the reinstatement of sanctions.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of Syria’s economic security, advocating for the unconditional lifting of sanctions to create jobs and boost economic opportunities. Furthermore, Turkey, hosting nearly three million Syrian refugees, has stressed the necessity of rebuilding Syria to facilitate the return of displaced individuals. Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz is scheduled to represent Turkey at the Brussels conference.

In summary, Turkey is urging the European Union to lift sanctions on Syria to promote a peaceful transition following years of civil unrest. The upcoming EU conference will include representatives from Syria’s new authorities for the first time, emphasizing international support for recovery. The Turkish government asserts that achieving economic stability is crucial for Syria’s future, advocating for jobs and reconstruction to encourage the return of refugees.

Original Source: www.euractiv.com