At the Brussels conference, donors pledged €5.8 billion ($6.3 billion) for Syria, which is lower than last year’s commitments. The EU contributed nearly €2.5 billion, while Germany and the UK pledged significant amounts. A U.S. representative called on other nations to increase aid as U.S. funding declines. Syria’s transitional government participated for the first time, requesting more aid and an easing of sanctions.
A recent conference held in Brussels witnessed international donors pledging €5.8 billion (approximately $6.3 billion) in aid for Syria. This amount, although significant, fell short of the previous year’s commitments, reflecting a decline in U.S. funding. The event marked the ninth occurrence of the Brussels Conference titled “Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition.”
The European Union emerged as a key contributor, pledging nearly €2.5 billion ($2.7 billion) to assist Syrians both within the country and in adjacent regions. Major contributions were also made by Germany, amounting to $330 million, and the United Kingdom, which pledged $210 million. These commitments represented a decrease from the €7.5 billion provided during last year’s conference.
U.S. representative Natasha Franceschi refrained from announcing new financial support, instead emphasizing the need for other nations to increase their contributions. “During the last 14 years, the United States has provided more assistance for the Syrian people than any other nation, more than $18.3 billion,” she stated, adding expectations that others will bear more of the financial burden moving forward.
Notably, this year’s conference included Syria’s transitional government, represented by Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani, who urged the international community to amplify aid efforts and reconsider sanctions placed on Syria.
The Brussels conference underscored the continuing challenges in securing adequate international support for Syria, with total pledges falling short of previous years. The decline in U.S. funding prompted a call for increased contributions from other nations. The participation of Syria’s transitional government at the conference highlights the evolving political landscape and the urgency of financial aid as emphasized by key representatives.
Original Source: shafaq.com
