Individual State to State Relations
Political Relations
France
On a country to country basis, Syria's relations with France are the strongest. One of the reasons is because Syria is an ex- French colony. As a result of the colonisation, the French language is the second language is Syria, whilst the Syrian law is based on the French legal structure. There is also a sizable Syrian expatriate community in France who maintain a strong cultural link with their former homeland. As a result of the relationship between the two countries, France has been Syria's most consistent backer (in comparison to other EU countries) in the international political arena.
France has also enjoyed the fruits of its relationship with Syria. For example Paris improved its status as a player in Middle East politics because of its close relations with Damascus. Therefore at times when other Western governments have wanted to influence a Syrian decision they have asked for France's help. France's relations with Syria have also helped to maintain Paris's sound relationship with the Arab world .
Trade Relations
In terms of trade and economic relations Germany is Syria's most important trade partner. Majority of Syria's exports go to Germany (21% of total exports). The main Syrian export product to Germany is oil. Majority of Syria's imports come from Germany too (8% of the total). Syrian imports from Germany include electronic devices and machinery.
Relations with the EU
After four years of negotiations, the EU and Syria finalised their terms for the Association Agreement. Upon ratification by the European Council this agreement will be the most senior political and economic agreement between EU and Syria. Co-operation between the EU and Syria dates back to 1977, with the signature of the Co-operation Agreement. Apart from giving for free access to EU markets for Syrian industrial products, the Co-operation Agreement has also provided the framework for assistance to Syria through the Financial Protocols for over 20 years.
A ccording to the economic chapter of the Association Agreement, the Association Agreement lays down a framework for the creation of a free trade area between the EU and Syria. This free trade area will be contributing to the establishment of a larger Euro-Mediterranean area by 2010. According to the EU, the agreement covers trade in goods, services, rules for public procurement, as well as for the protection of intellectual property rights, co-operation in a large number of areas including on customs, transport, tourism or environment, as well as dispute settlement provisions in line with those in the WTO. Politically the Association Agreement provides a framework to conduct regular political dialogue on issues of common interest, fostering mutual understanding and promoting the convergence of views. It includes essential provisions on respect for the democratic principles and fundamental human rights, cooperation to counter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, and anti-terrorism
The Association agreement with Syria is finalised as part of the Barcelona declaration which was produced in 1995. The goal of the declaration is to create a free trade area between EU members and 10 Mediterranean countries including Syria. The agreement also required that the 10 Mediterranean countries establish free trade agreements between themselves. Syria has already complied with this conditions as its a member of GAFTA (Greater Arab Free Trade Agreement).
Trade statistics
Syrian Exports to EU (2003) - € 3100 million (55 % of total exports)
Syrian imports from EU (2003) - € 2200 million (30 % of total imports) By: Meir Javedanfar- www.meepas.com Back |
