EU Reinstates Full Syria Cooperation Deal as Ties Begin to Normalize

(MENAFN) The European Union has restored the full application of its cooperation agreement with Syria, marking a renewed phase in relations following major political changes in the country, according to reports.

The EU Council has approved a decision ending the partial suspension of the Cooperation Agreement between the European Economic Community and Syria. The move reverses restrictions that had been in place since 2011.

According to reports, the earlier suspension was introduced in response to human rights concerns under the former government of Bashar al-Assad and was later expanded in 2012 to include limits on several trade-related sectors.

The suspended measures had covered Syrian exports such as oil, petroleum products, gold, precious metals, and diamonds.

“The decision sends a clear political signal of the EU’s commitment to re-engage with Syria and support its economic recovery,” the council said in a statement.

The EU Council also stated that the conditions which led to the suspension “are no longer present” following Assad’s removal from power in December 2024. It also referenced earlier decisions this year to lift economic sanctions, while maintaining some restrictions on security-related grounds.

According to reports, the restoration of the agreement is part of a broader EU strategy aimed at supporting “a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria” and assisting in the country’s economic and social recovery.

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