The interim Syrian government will participate in an EU aid conference aimed at gathering support as the country faces severe humanitarian crises following Assad’s fall. EU officials look forward to a fresh start despite recent violence, and emphasize the need for a peaceful political transition. The conference is crucial amid U.S. aid cuts, with significant pledges expected to address Syria’s dire situation.
The interim government in Damascus is set to participate in an annual international conference organized by the European Union to secure aid for Syria, which is currently grappling with severe humanitarian crises and an ambiguous political landscape following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. This conference has been held since 2017 in Brussels, but previously occurred without Assad’s involvement due to his aggressive tactics during the civil war that erupted in 2011.
Following Assad’s removal in December, EU officials view the conference as an opportunity for a fresh beginning, despite ongoing violence witnessed recently between the newly established Islamist authorities and Assad loyalists. Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, highlighted the desperate needs facing Syria, particularly marked by recent escalations of violence in coastal regions, while also suggesting a renewed sense of optimism due to an agreement reached on March 10, which seeks to integrate Kurdish-led, U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces into forthcoming state structures.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group responsible for overthrowing Assad, is designated as a terrorist organization by the United Nations. Nonetheless, EU officials express a willingness to engage with the new governing body, provided they honor commitments to uphold a peaceful and inclusive transition. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is anticipated to attend, representing various European and Arab officials alongside members of international organizations.
The significance of this conference is underscored by the substantial cuts to humanitarian and development assistance being implemented by the United States under President Trump. Previous conferences have successfully garnered pledges amounting to 7.5 billion euros (approximately $8.1 billion) in both grants and loans, with the EU committing 2.12 billion for 2024 and 2025. Currently, an estimated 16.5 million individuals in Syria are in need of humanitarian support, with 12.9 million requiring food aid, as reported by the EU. The devastation inflicted by the ongoing war has been exacerbated by a severe economic downturn that has drastically weakened the Syrian pound, resulting in widespread poverty.
In summary, the upcoming EU conference in Brussels represents a critical moment for Syria’s interim government to obtain necessary aid following Assad’s removal. Despite ongoing violence and the designation of governing bodies as terrorist organizations, there is potential for a hopeful future if commitments to peaceful governance are upheld. The dire humanitarian situation necessitates immediate international attention and assistance.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
