EU Advocates Lifting Sanctions on Syria Amid Sectarian Violence
Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign affairs chief, advocates for lifting sanctions on Syria to provide hope after recent sectarian violence. As the EU moves forward with this initiative, accountability from Syrian leadership is emphasized. The bloc’s focus remains on supporting basic services and socio-economic recovery, with significant funding pledged to assist affected communities during a recent donor conference.
On Monday, the European Union’s foreign affairs chief, Kaja Kallas, emphasized the necessity of lifting sanctions on Syria to instill hope within the population following the recent sectarian killings that threaten to escalate violence in the region. Ms. Kallas noted the complexity of discussions surrounding the easing of sanctions but affirmed that progress towards sanctions relief is ongoing, as it is imperative for the Syrian leadership to ensure accountability for these atrocities.
The EU’s recent partial lifting of sanctions aims to stimulate economic investment in Syria. However, this measure will be reconsidered should the new Syrian leadership fail to uphold the rule of law or to engage ethnically and religiously diverse groups in the political transition. The EU has also condemned the recent killings of over 1,400 Alawites in Syria, urging the interim government to hold the perpetrators accountable, as interim President Ahmad Al Shara announced an independent investigation into these events.
European diplomats have adopted a “wait and see” approach, asserting the importance of accountability for recent violence while also expressing a vested interest in Syria’s stability given its proximity to the EU. The Alawite minority, historically loyal to the Assad regime, has faced violence as recent retaliatory attacks targeted Alawite civilians following the ambush of government forces by loyalists. Reports indicate that rebel groups affiliated with Turkey have been primarily responsible for these killings.
For the first time, the EU has invited a representative of the Syrian government, Interim Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani, to a donor conference where significant funding will be pledged to support refugees and affected communities. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced a €300 million ($327 million) contribution towards humanitarian assistance. She remarked that achieving a peaceful future for Syria requires an inclusive political dialogue.
The recently held Syria donor conference successfully raised €7.5 billion, with notable participation from international partners, while the United States continues to apply sanctions that may deter business engagement in Syria due to compliance costs. The EU aims to assist the Syrian population by enhancing access to essential services and job opportunities amid a challenging recovery from the protracted civil war that began in 2011, with initiatives like cash-for-work programs to address unemployment and infrastructure needs. Stability within Syria is a crucial factor for the success of these initiatives, as indicated by European officials.
The European Union is advocating for the lifting of sanctions on Syria to foster hope and prevent further violence following recent sectarian killings. Although progress is being made, the EU emphasizes the need for Syrian leadership accountability and an inclusive political process. International support is crucial for Syria’s recovery, as highlighted by the significant pledges made during the donor conference. Ensuring basic services and job opportunities for the Syrian populace continues to be a primary objective for the EU amid ongoing challenges in the country.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
