Syria will establish a new government on March 1, as the international community, during the Paris Conference, pledged support for rebuilding efforts following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. A declaration was signed by various nations emphasizing a Syrian-led transition, while France announced €50 million in aid and emphasized combating terrorism as a priority.
Syria is set to establish a new government on March 1, as announced by its interim foreign minister. During a conference in Paris, Western and Arab nations committed to supporting Syria’s rebuilding efforts following the ousting of former president Bashar al-Assad. This gathering is the third such conference, following similar meetings in Jordan and Saudi Arabia, aimed at facilitating Syria’s political transition.
A key outcome of the Paris Conference was the signing of a declaration by various nations to collaboratively support a “Syrian-led” post-Assad transition. Nations involved in the declaration include Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, and several European countries such as France, Germany, and Italy, along with G7 members Canada and Japan. Importantly, although a US representative attended, the US refrained from signing the declaration.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot indicated that the EU is pursuing the swift lifting of sanctions against the Assad regime, asserting that these sanctions impede recovery efforts in Syria. He stated, “These sanctions can no longer constitute an obstacle to the recovery and reconstruction of Syria.” The declaration emphasizes support for the new Syrian government in combating extremism and preventing terrorist resurgence.
President Emmanuel Macron stressed the urgency of countering active terrorist groups such as the Islamic State, urging transitional authorities to collaborate with the international coalition. Notably, Syria’s interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former rebel associated with al-Qaida, has sought to distance himself from his past affiliations, assuring the international community of his commitment to a diverse governance structure.
Additionally, the final declaration highlights the importance of a transitional government that represents all segments of Syrian society, including the diaspora. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani reaffirmed attendees that the forthcoming government would embody the nation’s diversity. Barrot also announced a working group to coordinate international relief efforts under UN supervision, with France pledging €50 million in aid for Syria in 2025.
The conference in Paris marked a significant step toward Syria’s political transition, with international backing for a new government. The nations present expressed a commitment to a Syrian-led process while addressing pressing issues such as terrorism and the need for recovery. With pledges of financial support and a focus on representing diverse societal segments, the groundwork is laid for Syria’s future governance.
Original Source: www.euronews.com