European Union ambassadors representing all 27 member states have reached a preliminary agreement to lift sweeping economic sanctions on Syria.

The sanctions, which were imposed more than a decade ago during the height of the Syrian conflict under Assad’s leadership, targeted key pillars of the Syrian economy including energy, transportation, and banking sectors. The proposed removal of these sanctions, if formally ratified by EU foreign ministers in Brussels later today, would signal the beginning of a new era in European-Syrian relations and potentially mark a major step in Syria’s reintegration into the global community.

The decision follows a similar move by the United States last week, which lifted its own restrictions on Damascus in light of recent political developments. Together, the transatlantic decisions reflect growing international momentum to support Syria’s transition toward stability and reconstruction.

According to European diplomats, the lifting of sanctions is expected to unlock significant financial assistance, spur foreign investment, and ease the delivery of humanitarian aid to millions affected by years of conflict. The move is also seen as a strategic effort to rebuild Syria’s devastated infrastructure and revive economic activity after more than a decade of isolation.

While the EU has emphasized that human rights and democratic governance will remain central to its engagement with post-Assad Syria, the current agreement highlights a pragmatic approach focusing on rebuilding and stabilization.

The formal endorsement of the decision by EU foreign ministers is anticipated within hours. If approved, it would represent one of the most significant diplomatic developments in the region in recent years, potentially reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. (ILKHA)