EU and Syria Strengthen Ties with New Trade Agreement

The EU foreign ministers have restored trade relations with Syria, reactivating a previously suspended cooperation agreement from 2011. This decision, marking progress towards rekindling bilateral relations, will lift restrictions on Syrian imports, indicating EU's intent to re-engage and support Syria's economic recovery under President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

The European Union's foreign ministers reached a consensus on Monday to reestablish improved trade relations with Syria, reviving a cooperation agreement that was paused in 2011 due to the civil war triggered by an uprising against Bashar al-Assad.

Representatives from the EU member states convened in Brussels, emphasizing that this development is a critical step towards enhancing bilateral ties between the EU and Syria. The majority of Western sanctions on Syria, presently led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, were lifted last year following Assad's removal in 2024.

The renewed agreement will remove constraints on imports of specific Syrian goods, including oil, petroleum, and precious materials, signaling the EU's dedication to rekindle connections and assist in Syria's economic rehabilitation.