Syria’s Interim Government Joins EU Aid Conference Amid Political Uncertainty
The interim government in Damascus will join the EU aid pledging conference in Brussels amid ongoing humanitarian crises and political instability following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. The conference has historically excluded Assad’s administration. EU officials express cautious optimism for a new beginning while addressing urgent humanitarian needs in Syria, where millions require assistance.
The interim government in Damascus is preparing to participate in an annual international aid pledging conference for Syria, set for Monday, amidst ongoing humanitarian crises and political uncertainties following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Hosted by the European Union (EU) in Brussels since 2017, this conference previously excluded the Assad government due to its controversial conduct during the civil war that initiated in 2011.
The recent overthrow of Assad in December has changed the landscape, prompting EU officials to view the upcoming conference as an opportunity for a fresh start. However, there are heightened concerns regarding the ongoing violence, particularly clashes between new Islamist rulers and Assad loyalists, which have recently escalated in coastal regions.
Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, underscored the urgent needs of Syria, stating, “This is a time of dire needs and challenges for Syria, as tragically evidenced by the recent wave of violence in coastal areas.” Despite these challenges, she expressed optimism about the situation, mentioning the agreement reached on March 10 to incorporate the Kurdish-led, US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces into new governing institutions.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group that ousted Assad, is classified as a terrorist organization by the United Nations. Nevertheless, EU officials aim to engage with the new governance structures, provided they adhere to commitments for an inclusive and peaceful transition. The Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shibani, is expected to attend, alongside European, Arab ministers, and representatives from international organizations.
This year’s conference holds significant weight as the United States, under President Donald Trump, has been significantly reducing its humanitarian and development aid efforts. In the last conference, pledges reached approximately 7.5 billion euros (around 8.1 billion USD), with the EU committing 2.12 billion for 2024 and 2025. Presently, an estimated 16.5 million individuals in Syria are in dire need of humanitarian assistance, with 12.9 million requiring food support. The devastation wrought by the conflict has been further exacerbated by a crippling economic crisis, which has nearly driven the entire population below the poverty line.
In summary, the upcoming EU aid conference represents a crucial juncture for Syria amidst a humanitarian crisis and evolving political landscape post-Assad. While the participation of the interim government signifies a shift, pressing concerns about violence and governance persist. The need for humanitarian assistance remains critical, and the conference’s outcome will likely have significant implications for Syria’s future.
Original Source: www.france24.com
