Since the overthrow of former ruler Bashar al-Assad by a rebel alliance led by Islamist fighters, Western states have been trying to establish contacts with the new leadership in Syria in order to initiate the rapid return of Syrians to their homeland. Now European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is also calling for a reconsideration of EU sanctions against Syria.
This could make reconstruction easier, the German said on Wednesday during a speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. However, she also stressed: “First we need to see real progress towards an inclusive political process.” Europe has influence in Syria and must use it “so that power returns to the hands of the people of Syria.”
The sanctions were only extended in the summer
Only in the summer were the punitive measures against Syria extended. As things stand, they will remain in force until at least early July and will affect, among others, 86 organizations. This was intended to hit Assad and his supporters, as well as the economic sectors that the former government benefited from. The sanctions were first imposed in 2011 in response to Assad’s violent crackdown on the civilian population.
Answer to the rebels’ demands?
It is interesting to note that just two days ago, Mohammed al-Golani, leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) militia, called for the lifting of international sanctions against his country. During a meeting with British diplomats, Golani specifically spoke of the need to “lift all sanctions against Syria to allow the return of Syrian refugees to their country.”
In his new podcast this weekend, Chancellor Karl Nehammer emphasized that the Austrian federal government wants to make it easier for volunteers to return. Before the EU summit on Thursday, the head of government demanded in the main committee of the National Council: “Nobody has an interest in a failed state.” Syria should not pose any dangers such as terrorism, drug trafficking and human trafficking. The EU’s policy towards Syria needs to be reassessed. However, what is important is to maintain the unity of the country that is in civil war.
The implosion of the Assad regime was a “major turning point,” Nehammer said. “For the majority of Syrian refugees, the fall of the Assad regime has eliminated the reason to flee.” Austria does not want to “put blinders on” and has “presented food for thought” together with Cyprus and Greece, who also helped. many Syrians. Austria has provided three million euros in aid from the foreign disaster fund and is supporting Syrian returnees with up to 1,000 euros in assistance on their return, the Chancellor reiterated.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
