Tue May 20 10:34:16 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**EU to Lift Economic Sanctions on Syria Following Assad Ouster**

**Brussels, Belgium** – In a move to aid Syria’s recovery following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December, European Union member states have tentatively agreed to lift economic sanctions imposed during his rule. According to diplomatic sources, EU ambassadors reached a preliminary agreement that would see sanctions on the transport, energy, and banking sectors eased, including unfreezing central bank assets and allowing Syrian banks access to the global financial system.

The decision, expected to be formally announced by foreign ministers in Brussels on Tuesday, follows a similar move by the United States last week. Observers say this is a significant step forward for the new Syrian leadership and is vital for creating stability within the war-torn nation.

While the EU is lifting broad economic sanctions, it is also planning to impose new individual sanctions on those responsible for inciting ethnic violence. Measures prohibiting the sale of weapons and equipment that could be used for repression will remain in place.

The EU’s decision reflects a cautious optimism regarding the new Syrian government. The easing of sanctions is contingent upon the new leaders upholding promises of respecting minority rights and progressing towards democracy. The EU has stated that sanctions could be reimposed if these commitments are not met.

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