Germany is advocating for the European Union to reduce sanctions on Syria as part of an effort to aid the country’s political transition and post-war reconstruction. Ahead of Christmas, Berlin circulated proposals among EU member states outlining potential areas where sanctions could be lifted in exchange for reforms from Syria’s new leadership, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, Financial Times reported on Tuesday.
The focus would be on issues like women's rights and minority protection. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, during her recent visit to Damascus, stated that the EU aims to support a peaceful, inclusive transition for Syria. Germany intends to discuss this approach at the EU foreign ministers' meeting on January 27, following similar moves by the US with limited sanctions exemptions.
