The Ismaili Imamat, represented by His Highness the Aga Khan, pledged €100 million for Syria at the European Commission’s conference focusing on humanitarian and development needs. This commitment aims to aid the transition towards an inclusive recovery while addressing critical issues like health care, education, and economic stability amid ongoing crises in Syria.
On March 17, 2025, at the European Commission’s annual conference dedicated to Syria, His Highness the Aga Khan announced a commitment of €100 million from the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) over the next two years. This funding aims to address urgent humanitarian and developmental needs within Syria as part of the international effort for a Syrian-owned transition.
The conference, focusing on essential humanitarian, recovery, and reconstruction assistance, saw key figures attending, including the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas. His Highness, marking his initial public engagement since becoming the 50th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, emphasized the need for investment in health care, education, renewable energy, and cultural asset preservation while stressing the importance of achieving peace in Syria.
His Highness communicated the necessity for Syria’s new government to embody an inclusive and pluralistic approach, serving all Syrians regardless of their backgrounds. Notably, Kaja Kallas reiterated the commitment to support an inclusive transition that resonates with the aspirations of the Syrian populace as they strive to rebuild their nation.
On the sidelines of the conference, His Highness engaged with numerous officials, including Syria’s Interim Foreign Minister and various UN representatives, highlighting the collaborative effort necessary for effective humanitarian response. The AKDN has a long-standing engagement in Syria, particularly focusing on crisis response since 2012, aiding over two million people amidst ongoing humanitarian crises.
Syria, presently undergoing severe economic and humanitarian challenges, finds over 80 percent of its population in poverty, with substantial deficiencies in essential services like education and health care. The AKDN’s work encompasses a range of initiatives aimed at alleviating these conditions and fostering recovery through partnerships with international entities.
As Syria’s crisis reaches a critical turning point, significant opportunities for addressing immediate needs and fostering resilience are emerging, making the collaborative efforts even more crucial.
AKDN’s endeavors since 1999 have aimed to enhance opportunities and quality of life for the marginalized in Syria, encompassing various sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and cultural restoration.
The commitment of €100 million by the Ismaili Imamat and AKDN signifies a crucial step towards addressing the urgent humanitarian needs in Syria. As the nation faces immense challenges, this investment aims to support inclusive governance and essential services, paving the way for recovery and development as Syria stands at a critical juncture. Collaborative efforts by multiple stakeholders will play an essential role in facilitating this transition and fostering long-term resilience among the Syrian people.
Original Source: the.akdn
