WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. State Department officially
removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, a decision that
represents a significant shift in Washington's policy toward Damascus.
The move modifies the classification that for years kept
Syria among the countries considered by the United States to be sponsors of
terrorism and opens the door to a new phase in bilateral relations.
The designation entailed significant restrictions and
sanctions for Syria, so its removal could facilitate certain economic and
diplomatic exchanges, although other U.S. sanctions against the country may
remain in place.
The decision comes amid political changes in Syria and efforts
to redefine the United States' relationship with the new regional landscape.
Washington has indicated that modifications to its policy
toward Syria are contingent on developments on the ground and the behavior of
the new Syrian authorities.
Syria's removal from this list is one of the most
significant steps taken by the United States in its foreign policy towards the
country in recent years.