Syria’s new dawn: the EU must play an active role in securing the country’s democratic future

During today’s plenary debate on toppling of the Syrian regime, its geopolitical implications and the humanitarian situation in the region, the Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament called on the EU to be ready to review the sanctions in place against Syria and help with its reconstruction.

The fall of Bashar al-Assad regime opens a historic chapter for Syrian people and we expect a peaceful and inclusive transition, with rights for ethnic and religious minority groups in the country being protected, while those responsible for the atrocities committed in Syria must be brought to justice.

Renew Europe MEP, Nathalie Loiseau (Horizons, France), European Parliament’s standing rapporteur on Syria, said:

“Bashar al-Assad has fallen. The message is strong and it applies to all dictators: none is eternal. It also applies to all regimes that rely on an alliance with Russia: Vladimir Putin is not a reliable ally.

But hope is mixed with uncertainty, as Islamist rebels have taken Damascus.

Our priorities when it comes to Syria are clear: the fight against terrorism, the destruction of chemical weapons, respect for neighbouring countries, ending the alliance with Russia, the protection of minorities, and the place of women in the Syrian society.

Under these conditions, the birth of a new Syria can be truly good news for the Middle East. We must not let Syria’s new dawn fade.”