French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said the European Union would soon ease some of its sanctions on Syria. He said the EU could lift some restrictions as part of efforts to strengthen governance and resolve Syria’s ongoing conflict. The move was seen as a shift in EU policy after years of tough sanctions aimed at weakening the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Le Drian said the move would depend on Syria’s political system improving and reforms being implemented. The EU has long maintained sanctions over human rights abuses and the ongoing war, but there are signs that compromise is possible. The French Foreign Minister noted that any decision must be taken carefully to ensure it does not affect international peace.
The easing of sanctions is a significant development in the EU's Syria policy. If approved, it will open the door to greater cooperation and stability in the region, but much will depend on the future actions of the Syrian government.
