In a move to support Syria’s economic stabilization and reconstruction, France has declared the suspension of certain sanctions targeting the country’s energy, transportation, and financial sectors.
On January 27, 2025, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced that France would lift or suspend specific sanctions affecting Syria’s critical sectors. This decision aims to facilitate the nation’s economic recovery and the commencement of reconstruction efforts.
Barrot emphasized that this suspension must be accompanied by a political transition involving all Syrians, highlighting the necessity for inclusive governance. He also underscored the importance of ensuring regional security, calling for decisive measures against any resurgence of Daesh terrorism and the detection, control, and destruction of chemical weapon stockpiles held by the former Assad regime.
To bolster these efforts, France will host the third edition of the Aqaba Conference on February 13, bringing together Syria’s international partners to provide support and ensure the implementation of political transition measures and security guarantees. Barrot noted that this initiative concerns not only Syria but also the security of Europeans and French citizens.
The European Union’s foreign ministers are also discussing the easing of sanctions on Syria. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas expressed optimism about reaching an agreement to lift certain sanctions, particularly those impacting the energy and transport sectors and financial institutions vital to Syria’s financial stabilization.
This development follows the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel groups on December 8, 2024, which brought an abrupt end to a devastating 13-year civil war that had created one of the biggest refugee crises of modern times.
As the international community navigates the complexities of Syria’s post-conflict landscape, the suspension of certain sanctions by France and potential easing by the EU represent significant steps toward supporting the country’s path to recovery and ensuring regional stability.
