EU Proposes Partial Lifting of Sanctions Against Syria

Shortly before Christmas, Germany prepared and presented two documents to other EU countries proposing the partial lifting of sanctions against Syria. This was reported by the British Financial Times, citing sources.

According to the report, the documents detail a mechanism for easing sanctions in exchange for positive steps by the new Syrian authorities in social matters, including the protection of minorities, the non-proliferation of arms, and respect for women’s rights. It is also planned to lift restrictions on air transport and the movement of private assets.

“The EU could temporarily ease the sanctions so that they can be tightened quickly if necessary,” said a German official. The source admitted that there is currently no consensus among the member states regarding the easing of the sanctions regime.

Germany’s Foreign Ministry declined to comment to the newspaper.