Italian Foreign Minister announced plans to visit Syria to support the country's transition following the removal of President Bashar Assad by Islamist insurgents. He emphasized the need for Europe to reconsider its sanctions on Damascus in light of the evolving political landscape.
During a meeting in Rome with officials from five countries, including the US, UK, France, Germany, and Italy, discussions centered on coordinating post-Assad initiatives. Italy expressed readiness to propose private investments in healthcare for the Syrian population.
Minister Tajani stressed the importance of ensuring equal rights for all Syrians, particularly highlighting concerns about the rights of minorities under Syria's new de facto authorities, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Describing the initial communications from Damascus as positive, Tajani expressed optimism about the new phase in Syria that could contribute to international stability. He suggested that the EU should review its sanctions on Syria given the absence of Assad and the changing dynamics in the country.
Following years of severe sanctions imposed on Syria due to Assad's repressive actions against anti-government protests that escalated into a civil war, the recent ousting of Assad by HTS marked a significant shift in power.
The US has started to ease some penalties since Assad's departure to Russia, including dropping a bounty on a Syrian rebel leader. The new Syrian leadership has been urged to uphold the rights of minorities and women, particularly addressing the concerns of Syrian Christians who faced persecution during the civil war.
