Norway aligns itself with new EU sanctions against Syria

“The Syrian regime has not stopped the violence against its own people in spite of international condemnation. We agree with the clear signals from the EU to the regime in Syria. Norway will therefore align itself with the EU’s expanded sanctions against Syria,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. 

On 2 September, the Council of the European Union decided to ban the import of Syrian oil to the EU. The prohibition applies to the purchase, import and transport of oil and other petroleum products from Syria, as well as any financial or insurance services provided for such transactions. At the same time the Council decided that the travel ban and assets freeze on specific individuals and entities associated with the Syrian regime should be expanded and that the arms embargo imposed on Syria earlier should remain in place. 

“The situation in Syria continues to give cause for grave concern. There are still reports of new killings, attacks on protesters and abuse of prisoners. Norway therefore intends to continue to cooperate with the international community in responding to the Syrian regime and to make it clear that the regime must comply with the Syrian people’s legitimate demand that fundamental human rights must be respected,” said Mr Støre.