The European Union suspends some sanctions against Syria to support political transition and reconstruction.

EU Council Suspends Sanctions Against Syria to Support Political Transition

The Council of the European Union, representing the 27 member states, announced on Monday the suspension of several sanctions against Syria in order to "support an inclusive political transition" in the country. This decision aligns with the European Union’s efforts to promote the swift stabilization of Syria, alongside economic recovery and reconstruction.

The Twenty-Seven decided to "suspend a number of restrictive measures, taking into account the situation in Syria," the Council stated in a press release. The EU aims to facilitate dialogue with Syria, its citizens, and its businesses in key areas such as energy and transport, as well as the financial and banking transactions necessary for humanitarian activities and reconstruction efforts.

Specifically, the Council has chosen to suspend sectoral sanctions affecting energy (including oil, gas, and electricity) and transportation. Certain banks and the Syrian national airline have been removed from the list of entities subject to asset freezes and economic resources. Additionally, the allocation of funds and resources to the Central Bank of Syria has been authorized.

The European Union has also introduced exemptions regarding the ban on banking relations with Syrian financial institutions, permitting transactions related to the energy and transport sectors, as well as those necessary for humanitarian purposes and reconstruction.

Finally, the Council noted that it will continue to evaluate the possibility of suspending additional economic sanctions and will closely monitor the evolving situation in Syria to ensure these suspensions remain appropriate.