Canada moves to ease sanctions on Syria and appoints non-resident ambassador

Department of Research, Studies and International News 14-03-2025

In a significant policy shift, the Canadian government has announced plans to relax sanctions on Syria, citing the need for humanitarian support and long-term stability. Alongside this decision, Canada has designated its ambassador to Lebanon, Stefanie McCollum, to simultaneously serve as a non-resident ambassador to Syria.

Easing Sanctions for Humanitarian Aid

Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly revealed that Ottawa would be allocating 84 million Canadian dollars (approximately $59 million) in humanitarian aid. The government also intends to permit financial transactions through selected banking institutions, including the Central Bank of Syria, to facilitate the delivery of assistance.

In an official statement, the Canadian government underscored its commitment to aiding the Syrian people and supporting a peaceful and inclusive future for the country. The easing of sanctions, it stated, is intended to enhance the stability and efficiency of humanitarian efforts, assist in local redevelopment, and contribute to Syria’s broader recovery.

Over the years, Canada, along with other Western nations, has imposed a series of sanctions on Syria, primarily targeting President Bashar al-Assad’s administration. However, following the ousting of Assad by opposition forces, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) coalition, Canada is now re-evaluating its stance. According to the official statement, sanctions will be temporarily relaxed for six months to support Syria’s ongoing transition toward stability, democracy, and humanitarian relief.

Although Syria’s interim government has made assurances regarding the protection of religious and ethnic minorities, reports indicate that the country remains embroiled in violence. Recent accounts suggest that security forces have killed hundreds of Alawite civilians, raising concerns about sectarian strife.

The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has reported that over 1,500 people lost their lives in violent clashes across Syria this month, including at least 1,068 civilians. This ongoing turmoil has prompted Canada to call for urgent de-escalation and national reconciliation efforts.

Foreign Minister Joly emphasized the importance of stability, urging all parties involved to prevent further disintegration and conflict. “We call on all sides to prioritize de-escalation and national reconciliation to avoid plunging the country into further fragmentation and violence,” she stated.

Canada’s Role in Preventing Further Chaos

In addition to its financial support, Canada is taking on a diplomatic role in Syria’s evolving political landscape. The appointment of Stefanie McCollum as a non-resident ambassador marks a step toward re-engagement with Syria while maintaining a cautious approach.

Meanwhile, Canada’s special envoy for Syria, Omar Alghabra, reiterated the country’s commitment to preventing further destabilization. “Canada can play a role in ensuring Syria does not descend into chaos and instability,” he affirmed.

This latest policy adjustment reflects Canada’s attempt to balance humanitarian concerns with strategic diplomacy. While the decision to ease sanctions is aimed at facilitating aid and rebuilding efforts, the ongoing security challenges in Syria remain a pressing concern for the international community.