International donors have pledged €5.8 billion to support Syria’s rebuilding efforts after the ouster of President Bashar Assad. European leaders emphasize the need for humanitarian assistance as they navigate the ongoing violence and instability. The EU’s financial commitments are crucial, particularly in light of the U.S. absence, while the new Syrian authorities also seek further sanctions relief to promote recovery.
International donors convened in Brussels and pledged nearly €6 billion ($6.5 billion) for Syria, aiming to assist new leaders in rebuilding the nation following the removal of President Bashar Assad in December. After 14 years of civil conflict, the involvement of Syrian authorities at this year’s conference marked a significant change. Interim Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani was present, although recent violence has raised concerns about the new Islamist-led regime’s stability.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an increased commitment, allocating approximately €2.5 billion for this year and next to aid Syria and its neighboring countries. The European Commission’s total contribution included €4.2 billion in grants and €1.6 billion in low-interest loans, emphasizing that “Syrians need greater support, whether they are still abroad, or they decide to go home.”
Despite the substantial pledges from various nations—including Germany’s €300 million and Britain’s €192 million—the absence of a commitment from the United States has raised concerns. U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary Natasha Franceschi acknowledged their historical support for the Syrian populace but did not announce any new financial pledges. The ongoing review of U.S. foreign aid policy by the Trump administration is impacting overall aid efforts.
As countries cut back on spending to bolster defense budgets, EU Crisis Management Commissioner Hadja Lahbib remarked that while the EU will increase its contributions, it cannot cover the void left by the U.S. Syria’s new leadership, under Ahmed al-Sharaa, is actively seeking assistance for recovery.
The EU has relaxed sanctions in key economic areas but insists that the new authorities must fulfill promises for a comprehensive transition. Shibani stated, “We do appreciate the major measures taken by the European Union,” yet he called for additional steps to ensure recovery. Despite progress with a five-year transitional plan signed by Sharaa, the recent uptick in violence has undermined optimism.
Furthermore, the humanitarian situation in Syria remains critical. The United Nations estimates that approximately 16.7 million individuals require assistance, with vast areas still devastated economically and structurally by over a decade of conflict.
In conclusion, the international community has pledged substantial financial support to assist Syria in rebuilding amidst ongoing challenges. The commitment of nearly €6 billion underscores the urgency to promote stability in a nation ravaged by civil conflict. The new authorities face significant hurdles, including recent violence that threatens public confidence, yet there remains a pathway forward through sustained international aid and reconciliation efforts.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
