The interim government of Syria is expected to seek aid pledges at an EU-hosted conference in Brussels focused on the nation’s significant humanitarian crises and political transition following Bashar al-Assad’s removal. EU officials emphasize the necessity of support amidst recent violence and an ongoing economic downturn, while also indicating a cautious optimism for the future governance of Syria.
The interim government in Damascus will participate in an international conference on Monday aimed at securing aid for Syria, which is grappling with severe humanitarian crises and a volatile political landscape following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. Since its inception in 2017, this annual conference, hosted by the European Union in Brussels, had excluded Assad’s government due to his alleged atrocities during the civil war, which commenced in 2011.
Following Assad’s removal in December, EU officials view this conference as an opportunity for renewal, notwithstanding the recent outbreaks of violence between the new Islamist leadership and loyalists of Assad. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas remarked, “This is a time of dire needs and challenges for Syria, as tragically evidenced by the recent wave of violence in coastal areas,” while also expressing optimism about progress made on March 10 to integrate Kurdish-led forces into Syria’s governance framework.
The group responsible for Assad’s downfall, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is recognized as a terrorist organization by the United Nations; however, EU officials express willingness to collaborate with the new regime, provided they adhere to commitments to ensure an inclusive and peaceful transition. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is anticipated to attend, along with various ministers from Europe and the Arab world, as well as representatives from international organizations.
This conference holds significant importance amid reductions in U.S. humanitarian aid initiatives under President Donald Trump. The previous year’s conference succeeded in gathering pledges amounting to 7.5 billion euros (approximately $8.1 billion), with the EU committing 2.12 billion euros for the years 2024 and 2025. Current estimates indicate that 16.5 million individuals in Syria require humanitarian assistance, including 12.9 million in need of food aid, as assessed by the EU. The ongoing destruction from conflict has been exacerbated by an economic crisis that has severely weakened the Syrian pound and affected the majority of the population, pushing them below the poverty threshold.
The upcoming international conference in Brussels represents a critical opportunity for Syria’s interim government to secure much-needed humanitarian aid, amidst significant political and social upheaval following Bashar al-Assad’s removal. EU officials express cautious optimism for a fresh start while highlighting the urgent need for assistance to address the dire conditions affecting millions. With commitments from international stakeholders, there remains hope for a more stable and inclusive future for Syria.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
