EU to Suspend Sanctions on Syria for Reconstruction Efforts

brussels - European Union to suspend various sanctions on Syria to enable reconstruction efforts.

EU to Suspend Sanctions on Syria

In order to facilitate the reconstruction of Syria, the European Union is set to suspend various sanctions imposed on the country. Over the years, EU countries have implemented numerous punitive measures to increase pressure on the now ousted Assad regime. EU Foreign Ministers reached a political agreement on Monday to suspend sanctions aimed at enabling the country's reconstruction, particularly targeting sectors like energy and infrastructure.

Sanctions related to arms exports and against certain individuals and organizations will remain in place. The Syrian Islamic rebel group HTS will also continue to be listed on the EU terror list for the time being, despite its involvement in the transitional government. HTS claims to advocate for a 'multicultural society' and 'democracy' in Syria. Minister Veldkamp emphasized that it is premature to lift sanctions, stating, 'We want to see concrete actions align with their statements first.'