Germany pledges 300 million euros in aid to Syria amid an EU donor drive, aiming for recovery following Bashar al-Assad’s ouster. The conference marks the first instance of Syrian authorities’ participation and focuses on humanitarian needs and political transition. While funding may be impacted by reduced U.S. aid, engagement from Arab nations is being encouraged.
Germany has announced a new pledge of 300 million euros to support Syria, as part of an EU donor drive aimed at facilitating the country’s recovery following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the importance of this aid for the United Nations and select organizations working towards a peaceful resolution in Syria and the surrounding region.
The EU is organizing an international donor conference in Brussels, where Syrian authorities, for the first time, will be represented by interim foreign minister Assaad al-Shibani. The meeting aims to unify international efforts to steer Syria towards stability after 14 years of civil conflict, which has resulted in millions of refugees. Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yılmaz is also set to participate in the discussions.
An EU official highlighted that the conference aims to provide necessary support for Syria, while also stressing the need for a successful transition. Historically, the annual donor drives focused on aiding refugees in neighboring countries and avoided engagement with the Assad regime. This year is seen as a critical moment for potential progress in Syrian recovery efforts.
The humanitarian situation in Syria remains dire, with the UN estimating 16.7 million people in need of assistance. The country is largely in ruins, and its economy faces a long recovery process, needing over 50 years to return to pre-war levels. The EU aims to address immediate humanitarian needs while encouraging a structured transition to stability.
Syria’s new leadership, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, is seeking additional support for national recovery. Although the EU has relaxed sanctions on some economic sectors, it confirms that aid is conditional upon the authorities’ commitment to an inclusive transition. Recent violent incidents in Syria, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,500 civilians, have raised concerns around the regime’s ability to provide security and achieve stability.
Last year’s donor event successfully raised 7.5 billion euros but may face challenges this year, especially with expected reductions in U.S. foreign aid under the Trump administration. Historically, the U.S. has been a significant donor for Syrian humanitarian efforts, and any reduction could impact funding availability on a global scale. EU officials are optimistic about the involvement of Arab nations in offsetting potential funding shortages.
Germany’s commitment of 300 million euros marks a significant step in support of Syria’s recovery amidst ongoing humanitarian crises. The EU conference seeks to unite international donors for a coordinated response. Challenges remain, particularly the impact of reduced U.S. aid on global humanitarian assistance. The participation of new Syrian authorities at the conference may present opportunities for positive change, but concerns over recent violence raise questions about the feasibility of stability in the region.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
