Regional Change: Europe's Dramatic Move in Favor of Syria

The European Union announced today (Wednesday) the removal of economic sanctions imposed on Syria, as part of an effort to support the political transition process and the country's reconstruction following the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad. The move comes following a political agreement reached last week by European Union foreign ministers, who expressed support for easing economic restrictions in order to help stability in Syria.

Despite removing the economic sanctions, the European Union notes that it will continue to maintain targeted sanctions on Assad's regime, as well as various security restrictions aimed at protecting the security interests of the Union and the region. In addition, the Council announced the imposition of new sanctions against individuals and entities connected to the wave of violence that erupted in March of this year.

The European Council emphasized that it will continue to closely monitor developments on the ground, and expresses readiness to impose additional restrictive measures if necessary, against those who violate human rights and elements contributing to instability in the country.