U.S. Congress Member Meets Syrian President Amid Calls for Sanction Lifting
On March 11, 2023, U.S. Congressman Cory Mills met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Damascus, marking the first visit of American legislators since Bashar Assad’s ousting. They discussed lifting U.S. sanctions as Syria’s new government expresses optimism for change. The U.S. has eased some restrictions for humanitarian aid but has not formally recognized the new government or lifted major sanctions.
On Saturday, Syria’s President Ahmad al-Sharaa received Republican Congress member Cory Mills, marking the first visit from American legislators since the ousting of former leader Bashar Assad in December. The state news outlet SANA did not elaborate on their discussions, but noted that Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani was present at the meeting. This visit comes amid increasing demands from Syrian officials for the lifting of sanctions imposed by the U.S. and other Western nations early in the ongoing conflict.
Since his arrival in Syria on an unofficial visit on Friday, Mills, alongside Rep. Marlin Stutzman from Indiana, toured various locations in Damascus, including the historic old quarter and a significant but damaged synagogue. On Saturday, Stutzman visited Saydnaya Prison, infamously known for the human rights abuses faced by thousands during Assad’s regime, which lasted over 54 years.
Al-Sharaa, associated with the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led the offensive that took control of Damascus in December, compelling Assad and his family to seek refuge in Russia. Following the regime change, the Biden administration opted not to pursue a previously stated $10 million reward for al-Sharaa after his engagement with U.S. diplomats shortly after Assad’s fall.
The U.S. has not formally recognized the new Syrian government, and stringent sanctions from the Trump administration remain in effect following Assad’s rule. Stutzman remarked on the positive energy and optimism present among the people, suggesting that lifting sanctions could greatly benefit the country’s economy as the new government evolves. He emphasized the importance of U.S. understanding of the changes occurring in Syria and reiterated that a decision to lift sanctions rests with President Trump.
Amid these developments, the U.S. has relaxed some restrictions to facilitate humanitarian aid, issuing a six-month general license for specific transactions with the Syrian government, including limited energy sales. While Syrian officials advocate for lifting sanctions, the U.S. is pressing for actions that demonstrate protection for minority rights within Syria. Stutzman noted, “Lifting the sanctions will be very beneficial,” highlighting a shared understanding among officials regarding the urgency of this issue.
The meeting between Syria’s President Ahmad al-Sharaa and U.S. Representatives Cory Mills and Marlin Stutzman represents a significant diplomatic engagement post-Assad’s ousting. There is a growing call from Syrian officials to lift Western sanctions amid indications of optimism among the populace. While the U.S. has eased some restrictions for humanitarian purposes, significant sanctions remain in place, contingent upon governmental assurances regarding minority rights, making the prospect of future U.S.-Syria relations critical to watch.
Original Source: www.seattletimes.com
