EU to approve gradual lifting of sanctions on Syria

ISTANBUL

The EU is set to approve the gradual suspension of certain sectoral sanctions against Syria next week to facilitate the country's reconstruction following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime, diplomatic sources said Friday.

The decision is expected to be formalized Monday by the EU Foreign Affairs Council, which will convene in Brussels, diplomatic sources confirmed, Spanish news agency EFE reported.

The bloc previously reached a political agreement on the matter, but Monday’s meeting will mark its implementation.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the sanctions will be eased step by step, with the possibility of reinstatement if Syria’s new authorities fail to meet EU expectations.

The bloc is particularly seeking assurances of inclusiveness and respect for human rights from the new government.

The initial phase of sanctions relief is expected to focus on sectors critical to reconstruction, including transport, energy and financial transactions, a diplomatic source said.

In particular, air transport is anticipated to benefit from the lifting of restrictions.

The EU, however, will maintain its arms embargo on Syria, as it was not included in the political agreement among member states.

The EU initially imposed sanctions on Syria in response to the Assad regime’s crackdown on the 2011 uprisings, which escalated into a prolonged civil conflict.

The bloc currently enforces restrictive measures against 318 individuals and 86 entities, including asset freezes and travel bans. Additionally, sectoral sanctions remain in place across various industries.