EU to Consider Conditional Easing of Sanctions in Syria

- The European Union is preparing to ease some sanctions on Syria in an effort to increase its influence on the new Syrian government.

EU Foreign Ministers to Discuss Easing Sanctions on Syria

The European Union is planning to discuss easing some sanctions on Syria to enhance its influence on the country's new government. The issue will be brought to the table by EU foreign ministers in Brussels tomorrow. The meeting will focus on rehabilitation, reconstruction, and revitalizing the economy...

Step-by-Step Approach

The EU, at this stage, does not intend to touch sanctions such as the arms embargo but will proceed with a step-by-step approach. Brussels will take positive steps as Syria progresses in line with the EU's expectations. If Damascus takes negative steps, the EU will also take a step back. The EU's main expectations include an inclusive new government, protection of the rights of all sectors, their representation, drafting a new constitution, and holding elections within a reasonable timeframe. The relaxation of sanctions will be a significant turning point in the EU's policy towards Syria, a country with which the EU severed diplomatic relations in 2011. The EU's forthcoming move, aimed at preventing Russia from regaining influence in the country, is important both in terms of contributing to the Syrian economy and consolidating the new government's international legitimacy.