EU moves to establish diplomatic ties in Syria, open to new government

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen English
17 Dec 2024 14:26

The European Union has begun holding talks with Syrian government representatives to examine potential relations.

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Syrians gather in celebration days after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government at Umayyad Square in Damascus, on December 12, 2024. (AP)

Al Mayadeen's correspondent in Brussels reported that the atmosphere in the European capital does not indicate any efforts to lift sanctions off Syria in the meantime, despite a "clear urgency to engage with the new Syrian government."

German diplomats held talks on Tuesday with the transitional government in Damascus, discussing the possibility of German diplomatic representation in Syria, Reuters revealed, following an announcement by the German Foreign Ministry declaring that Berlin plans to hold talks with representatives of the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group in Damascus.

A Foreign Ministry spokesperson noted that initial talks between German diplomats and governmental representatives appointed by HTS would focus on the transitional process in Syria, as well as the protection of minorities.

"We are exploring possibilities for diplomatic presence in Damascus," the spokesperson stated while emphasizing that Berlin closely monitors Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham due to its background and affiliations with al-Qaeda. However, he did refer to current observations, saying HTS has "acted wisely so far."

He confirmed that Germany is maintaining close communication with its partners, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Arab countries, regarding Syria.

Additionally, a French delegation arrived in Syria today "to engage with the de facto authorities in Damascus," according to statements.

The Special Envoy to Syria, Jean-François Guillaume, confirmed that France was ready to stand by the Syrian population during the transitional period, while the French flag was raised on Tuesday morning above the French embassy in Damascus, which had previously been closed since 2012, according to AFP.

Meanwhile, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs announced that "the EU mission in Syria intends to fully resume its operations."

On Monday, Ahmad al-Sharaa urged the West to lift sanctions imposed during al-Assad's tenure, arguing that these restrictions hinder Syria's recovery and were no longer justified.

"Countries must now lift this designation. Syria is very important geostrategically. They should lift all restrictions, which were imposed on the flogger and the victim — the flogger is gone now. This issue is not up for negotiation."