Syria’s interim government is set to attend the EU aid conference, marking a pivotal shift post-Assad amidst ongoing humanitarian crises. EU officials aim for a fresh start in Syria’s governance, despite recent violence. The conference is essential for gathering support as the U.S. scales back aid, with commitments of billions already pledged.
The interim government in Damascus will participate in an annual EU-led aid conference for Syria, addressing severe humanitarian needs and political transition following Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Despite Assad’s past exclusion due to his civil war conduct, the conference marks a potential beginning for international engagement after his removal in December.
Since 2017, the European Union has hosted this conference in Brussels. The event, aimed at gathering financial support for Syria, previously omitted Assad’s government, reflecting the international community’s condemnation of his violent actions during the civil war starting in 2011. Current tensions remain as recent violence has erupted between the new Islamist rulers and Assad loyalists.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas highlighted the urgent needs in Syria, particularly referencing the recent violence impacting coastal regions, yet expressed cautious optimism due to new agreements aimed at forming inclusive state institutions. A notable agreement on March 10 seeks to integrate Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into these new structures, fostering hopes for stabilizing governance.
Despite concerns surrounding Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, recognized as a terrorist entity by the UN, EU officials are eager to collaborate with new leaders, conditional on commitments to a peaceful and inclusive transition. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is expected to join other international representatives, focusing on a coordinated response to ongoing crises.
The forthcoming conference is crucial given the U.S. cutbacks under President Trump in humanitarian aid initiatives. Last year, the conference yielded a substantial commitment of 7.5 billion euros in assistance, with the EU promising 2.12 billion for the upcoming years. The ongoing humanitarian crisis sees about 16.5 million people in need, with 12.9 million requiring food assistance. The fallout from the conflict, exacerbated by an economic downturn, has left nearly the entire Syrian population below the poverty line.
The participation of Syria’s interim government in the EU aid conference represents a significant shift in international engagement following the collapse of Assad’s regime. As the conference addresses urgent humanitarian needs, it symbolizes both challenges and potential pathways for inclusive governance in Syria. The international community’s commitments will be pivotal in navigating the post-Assad era, particularly amidst escalating humanitarian crises and economic hardships.
Original Source: www.france24.com
