On Wednesday, Syria welcomed the decision by the Arab League Council to lift all political, economic, and social sanctions imposed on the Syrian state and its institutions, marking the end of nearly 15 years of restrictions. However, measures targeting former regime officials remain in place.
The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the decision as "historic," terming it a "significant step towards correcting the course and strengthening the bonds of joint Arab work."
The ministry highlighted that lifting the sanctions reflects a mutual commitment to supporting economic recovery efforts, reconstruction, and enhancing stability in Syria.
The decision was ratified during the 166th regular session of the Arab League Council at the ministerial level, held on September 7. It encompasses lifting measures imposed by the league's institutions, organizations, and systems of joint Arab action on the Syrian state and its institutions.
Conversely, the council upheld travel bans and asset freezes on former regime officials.
The economic and social council has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of the decision and associated procedures.
Syrian foreign ministry expressed its appreciation for the "brotherly efforts and constructive responsiveness" that facilitated the decision, reaffirming Damascus's readiness to continue collaborating with the Arab League to serve the shared interests of regional nations and their peoples.
The Arab sanctions on Syria date back to November 2011, when the Arab League imposed an array of measures against Bashar al-Assad's regime following its crackdown on protests and refusal to implement an Arab plan to cease violence.
The measures included halting transactions with the Syrian Central Bank and freezing government assets, alongside suspending government trade exchanges, except for strategic goods that would otherwise impact the Syrian people.
This decision to lift the sanctions signifies a critical shift in Syria's relationship with the Arab world, as Damascus anticipates that easing restrictions will aid in boosting economic recovery and setting the stage for better conditions for reconstruction.