The interim government of Damascus will attend the EU aid conference focusing on Syria’s humanitarian crisis and political transition post-Assad. Despite the challenges, including ongoing violence and the designation of rulers as terrorists, there are opportunities for a new beginning. The conference aims to gather pledges to aid the 16.5 million people in need in Syria.
The interim government in Damascus is set to participate in the annual European Union aid pledging conference for Syria on Monday, amid significant humanitarian challenges and a period of political transition following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. This conference, held in Brussels since 2017, previously excluded the Assad regime due to its involvement in the civil war.
With Assad’s departure from power in December, EU officials view this conference as an opportunity for a new beginning, notwithstanding the ongoing violence that has recently erupted between the new Islamist rulers and loyalists of Assad. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas highlighted the serious humanitarian needs currently faced by Syria, referencing the recent violence in coastal regions as a catalyst for urgent assistance.
Kallas also noted a cautious sense of optimism, pointing to a significant agreement achieved on March 10 to incorporate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into newly formed state institutions in the northeast, emphasizing the potential for progress within the country.
Notably, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group responsible for Assad’s downfall, is classified as a terrorist organization by the United Nations. Nevertheless, EU officials aim to engage with Syria’s new leadership, encouraging commitment to creating a peaceful and inclusive political transition.
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is expected to attend alongside numerous European and Arab dignitaries and representatives from international organizations. This year’s conference is deemed especially critical as the United States under President Trump is reducing its humanitarian and development aid contributions.
Last year, the conference resulted in pledges totaling 7.5 billion euros (approximately $8.1 billion), with the EU committing 2.12 billion euros for the years 2024 and 2025. According to EU figures, around 16.5 million people in Syria require humanitarian assistance, with 12.9 million in need of food aid, amidst a devastating economic crisis exacerbated by the war, resulting in widespread poverty.
The participation of Syria’s interim government in the EU aid conference marks a pivotal moment in the country’s transition post-Assad. Despite the prevailing humanitarian crisis and ongoing violence, there are glimmers of hope for a more inclusive political future. The commitment of international stakeholders to provide aid remains crucial as the Syrian populace grapples with unprecedented challenges.
Original Source: www.france24.com
