Brussels: The European Union (EU) announced Wednesday the adoption of legal measures to formally lift economic sanctions on Syria, marking a significant shift in the EU's stance toward Damascus.

According to Qatar News Agency, this move follows a political agreement announced on May 20, aimed at supporting Syria's recovery and political transition. The lifting of sanctions is part of a broader series of steps initiated in February to ease economic restrictions on Syria, including the removal of barriers in sectors such as energy, transportation, and banking.

The EU stated that this decision reflects its commitment to supporting the Syrian people in building a more inclusive and peaceful future. The measures include suspending restrictions on the energy and transportation sectors, unfreezing assets belonging to five financial institutions, and permitting banking transactions for humanitarian and reconstruction purposes.

The European Council noted that the bloc will maintain sanctions related to the former government and certain restrictions imposed for security reasons. The Council will continue to monitor developments on the Syrian grounds closely.

The EU announced last week its intention of lifting economic sanctions on Syria, while US President Donald Trump also recently declared the lifting of US sanctions on Syria.