Brussels, 28/11/2012 (Agence Europe) - The United Kingdom, supported by France, has proposed frequent review of the EU embargo on arms to Syria, with re-assessment every three months, rather than once a year, diplomats revealed on Wednesday 28 November. A quarterly review would make it easier to arm the Syrian opposition and would ratchet up the pressure on the Bashar al-Assad regime.
The British proposal, which apparently came from Prime Minister David Cameron, was debated in the Coreper meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday morning, before the diplomats returned to their various capitals for discussions. According to Reuters, reservations were expressed by many at the British proposal.
The sanctions regime against Syria is due to come to an end on 30 November and, under European rules, have to be extended for a year from 1 December. If no agreement is reached, the sanctions will be lifted.
The proposal reveals strengthening support from London for the Syrian opposition. France has already suggested lifting the embargo in order to be able to help the Syrian National Coalition, which has requested just such a move (see EUROPE 10732). France, the United Kingdom and Italy have recognised the Coalition as the “sole legitimate representative” of the Syrian people, while the EU sees it only as a “legitimate representative” (see EUROPE 10734). (CG/transl.fl)