jordan pulse -

On Sunday, European ministers participating in the Riyadh meeting on Syria hinted at potential sanctions relief, provided certain conditions are met.

During her meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas outlined the prerequisites for lifting sanctions imposed during former President Bashar Al-Assad's rule.

Inclusive Government and Minority Protection
In a brief statement on her X platform account, Kallas emphasized the need for Syria's new administration to initiate a peaceful and inclusive transition process that safeguards minority rights. She added, "Only then will EU foreign ministers discuss easing sanctions."

The EU’s stance is clear: sanctions relief requires a peaceful power transition, the formation of an inclusive government representing all factions, and protection for minority groups within Syria.

This isn't the first time the EU has stipulated such conditions. Despite German-led efforts to ease sanctions, full relief hinges on these requirements. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and his German counterpart reiterated the same demands during their recent visit to Damascus.

The current Syrian government, composed of ministers aligned with the new administration, is expected to remain in place until March, when a transitional government is anticipated to be formed.