News item | 26-02-2025 | 16:43
The EU has With effect from February 24, 2025 A number of sanctions against Syria suspended. With the fall of Assad it is important to give Syrians a chance to rebuild their economy and country.
Why are the sanctions suspended?
The European Union (EU) has established sanctions against the Assad regime in recent years due to violent oppression of the Syrian population. With the fall of the Assad regime, a historical opportunity arises for all Syrians to reunite and build the country.
Foreign Minister Veldkamp: ‘A stable and safe Syria is of great importance. Good that the EU has suspended a number of sanctions to promote the economic recovery and reconstruction of Syria. This is a first step that the Netherlands has actively committed to. We insist that this benefits the entire Syrian population and continue to follow developments closely. Of course we keep the option open to set sanctions again if there is reason to do so. “
Which sanctions are suspended?
- Sanctions on the transport and energy sectors (including oil, gas and electricity). This means that European companies can now do more business in these essential Syrian sectors.
- Exemptions from the prohibition of bank relationships from the EU with Syrian banks and financial institutions. This means that regular transactions from the EU to those banks are now permitted and, for example, makes transactions that are needed for humanitarian goals and reconstruction.
- The humanitarian exemption on sanctions is extended unlimited. This means that there can be constant and timely humanitarian aid to support basic needs.
- The prohibition on the export of luxury goods to Syria is being lifted, as long as the goods are intended for personal use (most non-luxury goods may already be carried out).
In the coming period, it will be discussed within the EU whether more sanctions can be suspended.
However, the sanctions against members of the former Assad regime will be maintained. Sanctions against chemical weapons, illegal drug trafficking, goods that can be used for military goals (dual-use) And the input/export of Syrian cultural heritage is also maintained.