German Institute: The EU has a great interest in the stability of Syria
The German Institute for International and Security Affairs stated that the European Union has a significant stake in Syria’s stability, stressing the need to seize the opportunity and contribute to this through coordination and cooperation with the Gulf states, the United States, and Türkiye.
In a report, the institute considered easing European sanctions on Syria a necessary but insufficient first step, adding, that Germany and the European Union must pressure Washington to lift US sanctions or find alternative mechanisms to support recovery.
The report emphasized the need to maintain sanctions on senior figures affiliated with the Assad regime and Hay’at Tahrir al Sham until they comply with clear conditions, such as distancing themselves from jihadist movements, preventing sectarian violence, investigating massacres, and respecting human rights.
The German Institute warned that Syria stands at a critical crossroads that requires addressing complex issues including political transition, social reconciliation, reconstruction, economic transformation, and the return of refugees, in addition to thorny security issues, including the disarmament and integration of factions and the fight against ISIS and other armed groups.
