EU to Host 9th International Conference in Support of Syria on March 17
The EU will convene the 9th International Conference in Support of Syria on 17 March 2025, focusing on a Syrian-led transition for recovery and reconstruction. Co-chaired by top EU officials, this event will gather international support and include Syrian authorities for the first time. Amid ongoing challenges in Syria, the conference aims to address humanitarian needs and socio-economic recovery.
The European Union is set to host its 9th International Conference in Support of Syria on 17 March 2025 in Brussels. This year holds particular significance as it follows the fall of the Assad regime, presenting an opportunity for the Syrian populace to regain agency and commence the reconstruction of their nation.
The ministerial event, titled ‘Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition’, will be co-chaired by High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas, Commissioner Dubravka Šuica, and Commissioner Hadja Lahbib. This initiative seeks to rally international support for a Syrian-led, inclusive transition that encompasses aid for socio-economic recovery. Notably, Syrian interim authorities and representatives from the United Nations and neighboring states have received invitations for the first time.
Amid ongoing fragility within Syria, marked by recent instances of violence against civilians and attacks on security forces, the conference will address recent developments, transitional progress, and potential international support. Additionally, it will underline the urgent socio-economic recovery needs while addressing persistent humanitarian challenges. The regional focus of the conference will emphasize the EU’s continuous commitment to support Syrians and host communities throughout this transitional period.
Furthermore, the EU plans to facilitate a forthcoming meeting involving Syrian civil society from both within the country and in the diaspora in Damascus. More details on this initiative will be revealed in due course.
Commissioner Hadja Lahbib stated, “The EU stands with the Syrian people on their path to recovery, peace, and a secure future. The dire humanitarian crisis in Syria and the region has not vanished with the fall of the regime. Today we have a historic chance to reset, recover, and rebuild. I witnessed first-hand the huge potential these developments bring for Syria and the entire region. The EU will continue its strong support for an inclusive Syrian transition.”
The EU has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the Syrian people by organizing the annual Brussels Conference over the past eight years. Since 2011, the EU and its Member States have mobilized over €37 billion in assistance aimed at humanitarian, developmental, economic, and stabilization efforts, benefitting Syrians both domestically and regionally.
The upcoming 9th International Conference in Support of Syria represents a pivotal opportunity for international cooperation towards a Syrian-led transition. With the engagement of Syrian authorities and a comprehensive approach to socio-economic recovery, the EU emphasizes its ongoing support amid pressing humanitarian needs. This initiative stands as a testament to the EU’s commitment to the Syrian people during this crucial period of reconstruction and revitalization.
Original Source: civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu
