Syria: Syria welcomed on Monday a decision by the European Union to remove several Syrian institutions from its sanctions list as part of efforts to support the country's transition. "We welcome the European Union's decision to lift sanctions on a number of Syrian government entities, including the ministries of interior and defense," Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani announced on the US social media platform X. He also expressed appreciation for the renewal of sanctions imposed on figures of the former regime and those involved in crimes against the Syrian people.

According to Anadolu Agency, the EU on Monday renewed restrictive measures targeting individuals and entities linked to the former Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad for another year, while removing several institutions from its sanctions list to support the country's transition. The EU Council stated that the sanctions would remain in force until June 1, 2027, following its annual review of measures imposed on figures associated with the former regime.

In December 2024, Assad, who led Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia, ending the Baath Party's decades-long rule that began in 1963. A transitional administration led by Ahmad al-Sharaa was established in January 2025. Damascus is looking forward to deepening cooperation with its partners in the EU, aiming for mutual respect and shared interests to support Syria's path of reconstruction, stated Foreign Minister Shaibani.