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Germany Calls For Smart Approach To Syrian Sanctions Relief

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock holds a press conference during an official visit, in Damascus, Syria, Friday, Jan. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

Germany's foreign minister emphasized the importance of maintaining sanctions against Syrian officials responsible for war crimes while advocating for a strategic approach to provide assistance to the Syrian population following the recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad. The minister highlighted the need for a swift transition of power to benefit the Syrian people.

Germany announced an additional 50 million euros in aid for food, emergency shelters, and medical care to support the millions of Syrians displaced by the long-standing civil war. European countries, including Germany, expressed the desire for a future Syrian government that is inclusive of all religious and ethnic communities, with a particular emphasis on the involvement of women in the political process.

Turkey, a staunch supporter of the Syrian opposition, pledged to assist Syria in normalizing relations with the international community. The Turkish Foreign Minister stressed the importance of finding a balance between global expectations and the challenges faced by the new Syrian administration.

The United States recently eased some restrictions on Syria, including authorizing certain transactions with the Syrian government and dropping a bounty on a former rebel leader who played a key role in ousting Assad. The rebels, supported by various countries, successfully removed Assad from power in December, ending his family's decades-long rule.

With Assad no longer in control, Syria's new leadership hopes for substantial international support to rebuild the country's infrastructure and revive its economy. The international community's engagement is seen as crucial for Syria's recovery and transition to a more stable and prosperous future.

For more updates on Syria, visit AP's Syria coverage.

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