Syria’s Interim Government to Attend EU Aid Conference Amid Transition Challenges

Syria’s interim government will attend an EU aid conference amidst a humanitarian crisis and political transition following Assad’s regime. The conference aims to gather pledges to assist Syria’s dire needs, with the involvement of foreign ministers and international organizations. EU officials express hope for a renewed approach while acknowledging ongoing violence in the region.

The interim government in Damascus will participate in an annual international aid pledging conference focused on Syria, scheduled for Monday. This conference aims to address the acute humanitarian crisis and the politically uncertain environment following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. Since its inception in 2017, the European Union has hosted this event in Brussels, traditionally without the participation of Assad’s regime due to its violent actions during the Syrian civil war.

EU officials aspire to utilize the upcoming conference as an opportunity for a renewed approach following Assad’s departure in December. Concerns remain, however, regarding recent violent conflicts between the new Islamist authorities and Assad loyalists. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, emphasized the urgent humanitarian needs in 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.”

Simultaneously, Kallas expressed cautious optimism, referring to a recent agreement aimed at including the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in the new governmental structure. Although the group responsible for overthrowing Assad is classified as a terrorist organization by the United Nations, EU officials are keen to engage with the new leaders, contingent upon their commitment to a peaceful and inclusive transition.

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is anticipated to attend, alongside various European and Arab representatives and officials from international organizations. The significance of this conference is heightened by the United States’ reduced funding for humanitarian aid under President Trump’s administration.

Last year, the conference raised commitments totaling €7.5 billion (approximately $8.1 billion), with the EU pledging to contribute €2.12 billion in aid for 2024 and 2025. The EU reports that about 16.5 million residents in Syria require humanitarian assistance, with 12.9 million individuals in need of food aid. The impact of the continuing war, coupled with a severe economic crisis, has led to the depreciation of the Syrian pound and pushed nearly the entire population beneath the poverty threshold.

The upcoming EU aid conference represents a critical step in addressing the humanitarian needs of Syria following the transition of power from Assad. With significant pledges anticipated, and the involvement of new Syrian leadership, the international community seeks to foster a comprehensive and peaceful governmental structure in Syria amidst ongoing challenges. Rising humanitarian demands underscore the urgency for continued international support to alleviate the crisis affecting millions.

Original Source: www.france24.com