The European Union is considering a partial lifting of sanctions related to Syria’s energy sector. In particular, discussions are underway regarding the removal of the ban on importing Syrian oil and exporting technologies for the oil and gas industry.
According to Bloomberg, a potential agreement could also lift restrictions on financing oil exploration, refining, and the construction of new power plants. Additionally, the EU is discussing the removal of several Syrian banks from the sanctions list and the partial relaxation of restrictions imposed on the country’s central bank to allow it to provide financial resources.
Despite the possible easing of certain measures, the freezing of Syrian central bank assets in the EU is likely to remain in place, according to sources. Proposals under consideration also include lifting bans on the export of banknotes and aviation fuel, easing restrictions on airline operations, and expanding access to European airports. Additional relief measures may include exemptions related to opening bank accounts in Syria.
On January 27, EU foreign ministers reached a political agreement on easing sanctions against Syria. Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has called for a complete lifting of the sanctions.
