European Union sanctions in Syria that obstruct the delivery of humanitarian aid and hinder the country's recovery could be lifted swiftly, France's foreign minister said Wednesday.

Targeted measures under discussion include easing financial transactions, improving air transport, and reducing sanctions on the energy sector to address Syria’s severe power shortages.

"We are actively discussing ways to provide sanctions relief to the Syrian people in certain sectors," one of the sources said. This requires an unanimous EU decision. Germany's foreign ministry declined to comment.