Syria’s Interim Government to Participate in EU Aid Conference Amid Humanitarian Crisis

Syria’s interim government will attend the EU aid conference in Brussels amid a post-Assad transition. The conference aims to gather aid pledges for Syria’s humanitarian crisis, while also representing a potential fresh start following violent conflicts. EU officials are engaging with new rulers, despite concerns surrounding their leadership status, to promote a peaceful political transition.

The interim government in Damascus will participate in an annual international aid pledging conference dedicated to Syria, amidst significant humanitarian crises and an uncertain political landscape following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. The European Union has hosted this pivotal event in Brussels since 2017, previously excluding the Assad government due to its contentious role in Syria’s civil war.

With the recent overthrow of Assad in December, EU officials are optimistic about new beginnings, even amidst ongoing violence between the newly established Islamist rulers and Assad loyalists. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas noted the urgent need for assistance, citing a “tragic wave of violence in coastal areas” alongside a “time of hope” stemming from a recent agreement to incorporate Kurdish-led forces into national governance.

Despite concerns regarding the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham that deposed Assad—designated a terrorist organization by the United Nations—the EU intends to engage with the new leaders, provided they commit to an inclusive and peaceful political transition. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is scheduled to attend, along with European and Arab ministers and representatives from global organizations.

The conference is crucial, particularly as the United States, under President Trump, is reducing humanitarian aid significantly. Last year’s gathering garnered pledges of €7.5 billion (approximately $8.1 billion) in grants and loans; the EU has pledged €2.12 billion for 2024 and 2025. Currently, 16.5 million people in Syria rely on humanitarian assistance, with 12.9 million in need of food aid. The ongoing conflict has exacerbated an economic downturn that has plunged almost the entire Syrian population into poverty.

The participation of Syria’s interim government in the EU aid conference marks a significant political shift amidst ongoing humanitarian challenges. Despite the backdrop of recent violence, the event aims to facilitate new beginnings for the war-torn nation, fostering a collaborative approach for future governance. With millions still in dire need, the international community’s engagement remains critical in supporting Syria’s recovery and promoting stability.

Original Source: www.france24.com