Syria’s Interim Government Participates in EU Aid Conference Amid Crisis
The interim government in Syria will attend an EU aid conference amidst a humanitarian crisis and the political landscape following Assad’s overthrow. EU officials express hopes for a positive transition, despite ongoing violence. The conference aims to secure aid pledges as millions require humanitarian assistance.
The interim government in Syria plans to attend an international aid conference organized by the European Union (EU) in Brussels, reflecting a significant shift amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the political uncertainty following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. Since its inception in 2017, the conference has traditionally excluded Assad’s regime due to its violent actions during the civil war, which commenced in 2011.
The inclusion of the interim government is seen as a potential watershed moment, even amidst violent confrontations this month between the newly installed Islamist rulers and Assad loyalists. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas articulated the urgent needs of the Syrian people, stating, “This is a time of dire needs and challenges for Syria.”
However, Kallas also emphasized a sense of optimism, highlighting a recent agreement on March 10 to incorporate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into upcoming governmental structures. Despite the association of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group that succeeded in ousting Assad, with terrorism as per United Nations designations, EU officials express a willingness to engage with the new leadership provided they commit to an inclusive and peaceful transition.
The conference is expected to attract numerous dignitaries, including Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani and representatives from various European and Arab nations. Given the United States’ significant cutbacks to humanitarian aid under the Trump administration, the conference holds heightened significance for the region.
Last year’s conference resulted in a commitment of approximately 7.5 billion euros in funding, with the EU pledging 2.12 billion euros for the upcoming years. Currently, around 16.5 million individuals in Syria are in dire need of humanitarian assistance, while 12.9 million are facing food insecurity due to the compounded effects of war and economic collapse, which has severely devalued the Syrian pound and plunged the vast majority into poverty.
In summary, the participation of Syria’s interim government in the EU-organized aid conference marks a pivotal moment in international relations concerning Syria. While the country grapples with severe humanitarian needs, the presence of EU officials conveys hope for a more inclusive governance model in the aftermath of Assad’s regime. The urgency for aid remains paramount, with millions of Syrians relying on external support for survival and recovery.
Original Source: www.france24.com
