Syria’s Interim Government Joins EU Aid Conference Amidst Crisis

Syria’s interim government will attend an EU aid conference in Brussels, marking a shift since the downfall of Bashar al-Assad. The conference aims to address severe humanitarian needs amidst ongoing violence and political transition. Approximately 16.5 million people require assistance as EU officials express hope for inclusivity under new leadership.

The interim government in Damascus plans to participate in an annual international aid pledging conference for Syria, scheduled for Monday, amidst a significant humanitarian crisis and a politically uncertain period following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. This event, habitually hosted by the European Union in Brussels since 2017, has previously excluded Assad’s government due to its role in the civil war.

Now, as the Syrian landscape undergoes transformation post-Assad’s regime, EU officials anticipate a renewed opportunity for engagement. They express optimism despite ongoing violence between the new, Islamist leaders and loyalists of Assad. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized the urgent humanitarian needs highlighted by recent violence, while also recognizing a newfound hope facilitated by the recent agreement to incorporate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into Syria’s state institutions.

Although the group that dethroned Assad, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is on the UN’s terrorist list, EU officials express willingness to collaborate with the new rulers, conditioned on their commitment to a peaceful and inclusive transitional approach. The participation of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is anticipated, alongside numerous European and Arab ministers and various international organization delegates.

This year’s conference holds special significance as the United States, under President Donald Trump, is reportedly reducing its contributions to humanitarian and development aid. The previous conference resulted in pledges totaling approximately 7.5 billion euros, with the European Union committing an additional 2.12 billion euros for humanitarian assistance in 2024 and 2025. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with roughly 16.5 million people in Syria requiring assistance and around 12.9 million in need of food aid, compounded by a severe economic crisis that has left nearly the entire population in poverty.

In summary, the participation of Syria’s interim government in the upcoming EU aid conference represents a potential turning point following a long period of conflict. Despite challenges including violence and economic instability, efforts to engage with the new leadership reflect a combination of urgency and cautious optimism among European officials. The international community remains focused on addressing the humanitarian crisis affecting millions within Syria, while also promoting a peaceful transition.

Original Source: www.france24.com