Germany spearheads a new EU aid initiative for Syria with Syrian representatives attending for the first time post-Assad. The need for humanitarian aid is critical, with 16.7 million people needing assistance, amid ongoing violence and economic challenges. The conference aims to address urgent issues and foster a political solution for stability.
On Monday, Germany initiated a new round of aid pledges for Syria as the EU conducts a donor drive following Bashar al-Assad’s ouster. This year marks the first time representatives from the Syrian authorities, including interim foreign minister Assaad al-Shibani, will participate in the annual conference in Brussels, according to reports.
Western and regional leaders aim to stabilize Syria after 14 years of civil war that caused millions of refugees to flee. However, recent violence, the worst since Assad’s removal in December, has raised concerns about the new Islamist-led government’s ability to maintain order.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the necessity of an inclusive political process for Syria’s peaceful future. Berlin announced an additional 300 million euros for the UN and other organizations that support Syrians both inside the country and in the region.
Traditionally, the EU’s annual donor drive focused on aiding refugees in neighboring countries while avoiding interactions with Assad’s regime. This year’s conference prioritizes funding to meet urgent humanitarian needs of Syrians and displaced individuals.
Syria faces enormous challenges, as large areas remain in ruins and the economy is severely damaged due to years of international isolation stemming from Assad’s brutal methods against opposition in 2011. Currently, an estimated 16.7 million people within Syria require assistance, and the UN projects that recovery could take over 50 years at the present growth rate based on pre-war economic levels.
The EU’s renewed aid initiative for Syria, spearheaded by Germany, represents a significant shift in approach, allowing engagement with Syrian authorities amidst ongoing humanitarian crises. With an overwhelming number of citizens requiring assistance, the focus on urgent humanitarian needs and inclusive political processes is critical to paving a path toward stability and recovery. Immediate funding and support are necessary as Syria continues to grapple with deep-rooted issues from years of conflict.
Original Source: news.az
