Commonwealth_ The Canadian government has announced plans to ease sanctions on Syria during what it describes as a period of transition. This move comes in response to recent political changes in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad late last year by insurgent forces led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). For years, Canada, alongside other Western nations, imposed a range of sanctions on Syria due to allegations of the Assad’s regime’s human rights violations and its handling of the country’s prolonged civil conflict. However, with the shift in power, Ottawa has decided to adopt a more flexible stance to support Syria’s path toward democratization and stability.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Canadian government emphasized its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to the Syrian people and fostering an inclusive and peaceful future for the nation. As part of this initiative, Canada announced C$84 million in new funding specifically allocated for humanitarian aid in Syria. This financial support is intended to address urgent needs such as food security, medical care, and shelter for those affected by the ongoing crisis.
Moreover, Canada revealed that it would ease existing sanctions for a period of six months. This temporary relaxation aims to facilitate democratization efforts, stabilize the region, and ensure the effective delivery of humanitarian assistance. During this period, Canadian organizations and individuals will be allowed to engage in financial transactions and services that would otherwise be prohibited, provided these activities directly support the outlined goals.
Permitting the transfer of funds through select Syrian banks, including the country’s Central Bank, is a key aspect of this sanction relief. This measure is designed to streamline the flow of resources and enable humanitarian agencies to operate more effectively within Syria’s borders. To further strengthen diplomatic relations and support Syria’s transition, Ottawa announced that Canada’s ambassador to Lebanon, Stefanie McCollum, has been nominated to serve concurrently as the non-resident ambassador to Syria. This dual appointment reflects Canada’s intention to maintain a diplomatic presence and offer strategic support during this crucial period.
Additionally, the Canadian government has issued a general permit, valid for six months, allowing Canadians to conduct financial transactions and provide services linked to democratization, stabilization, and humanitarian aid. This permit aims to remove bureaucratic hurdles that could otherwise slow down the flow of vital resources to the country.
However, the recent massacre of over 1300 Alawites has raised deep concerns over the fate of minorities in Syria, which has led to condemnation from across the world. The relaxation of sanctions will likely be a key area of focus by human rights groups.
