The EU has pledged 2.5 billion euros to assist Syria in rebuilding post-civil war during a donor conference in Brussels. Significant contributions from Germany and the UK were announced. For the first time, a representative from the Syrian interim government attended, signaling a potential shift in the country’s political landscape, though funding expectations are tempered due to reduced U.S. aid.
The European Union (EU) has organized a donor conference in Brussels aimed at supporting Syria’s reconstruction following the civil war and the removal of former leader Bashar al-Assad. The event, chaired by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, included participation from both Western and regional powers aiming to facilitate a peaceful transition in Syria.
During the conference, the EU committed approximately 2.5 billion euros ($2.7 billion) in humanitarian assistance for the years 2025 and 2026. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated, “Syrians need greater support, whether they are still abroad, or they decide to go home.”
Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also announced an additional pledge of 300 million euros ($328 million) to support the United Nations and other organizations aiding Syrians. She emphasized, “There can only be a peaceful future for Syria if there is an inclusive political process.”
The United Kingdom contributed up to 160 million British pounds ($208 million) for humanitarian aid to assist in Syria’s recovery, with a focus on providing essential services such as water, food, healthcare, and education for 2025. Last year’s donor conference secured 7.5 billion euros ($8.2 billion), though expectations for this year’s total have diminished due to reduced foreign aid from the United States.
For the first time, a representative from the Syrian interim government attended the conference. Interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani participated in what marked the ninth donor conference. The new leadership in Syria faces significant challenges in regaining control over territory fragmented and devastated by over a decade of conflict, with recent violence indicating ongoing instability.
The EU’s donor conference represents a critical step towards rebuilding Syria amidst ongoing challenges from civil conflict and political instability. With significant pledges from multiple nations, including the EU’s 2.5 billion euros and Germany’s supplementary funds, efforts are underway to provide humanitarian assistance aimed at facilitating a peaceful transition. Nonetheless, the anticipated funding may fall short of previous totals as geopolitical factors influence international aid commitments.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
