The European Council has amended its sanctions against Syria in order to allow for the otherwise prohibited purchase or transportation of oil and petroleum products in Syria, where the sole purpose is to provide humanitarian relief or assistance to the Syrian population. The amendments also include a corresponding derogation from the asset freeze and travel ban. The authorisation provided for by the revisions is open to entities in receipt of public funding for providing aid to Syria, as well as other entities authorised by Member States. Council Regulation 2016/2137 amends Council Regulation 36/2012, and Council Decision 2016/2144 amends Council Decision 2013/255/CFSP.
