Syria’s Interim Government Participates in EU Aid Conference Amid Transition Challenges

Syria’s interim government will attend the EU aid conference amid severe humanitarian crises and political uncertainty post-Assad. The conference has excluded the Assad regime previously but is seen as a new beginning following his dismissal. Recent violence and humanitarian needs remain pressing, prompting international cooperation to support the Syrian populace.

The interim government of Syria will participate in an annual aid pledging conference on Monday, organized by the European Union in Brussels, amidst a significant humanitarian crisis and an uncertain political landscape following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Since its inception in 2017, the conference has traditionally excluded Assad’s regime due to its involvement in the civil war that originated in 2011.

With Assad ousted in December, EU officials view this conference as an opportunity for a new beginning, despite concerns regarding recent violent clashes between the new Islamist leadership and Assad loyalists. According to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, “This is a time of dire needs and challenges for Syria, as tragically evidenced by the recent wave of violence in coastal areas,” while also noting it is “a time of hope,” referencing a March 10 agreement to incorporate Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into state institutions.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group responsible for Assad’s removal, is categorized as a terrorist entity by the United Nations. Nevertheless, EU representatives are keen to collaborate with the new leadership, contingent upon their commitment to establishing an inclusive and peaceful transition. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is projected to attend, alongside numerous European and Arab officials as well as representatives from international organizations.

The significance of this conference is heightened due to substantial reductions in humanitarian and development support from the United States under President Trump. The previous year’s conference secured pledges amounting to 7.5 billion euros ($8.1 billion), with the EU committing 2.12 billion for 2024 and 2025. Approximately 16.5 million individuals in Syria require humanitarian aid, and 12.9 million are in need of food assistance, as reported by the EU, amidst deteriorating conditions exacerbated by an economic crisis affecting the Syrian pound and plunging the populace into poverty.

The participation of Syria’s interim government in the EU aid conference represents a pivotal moment amid ongoing humanitarian challenges and political transformation. While there are concerns over recent violence, the EU seeks to foster an inclusive and peaceful transition, underscoring the urgency of humanitarian assistance. The conference aims to mobilize significant aid amid a dire situation, prompting renewed hopes for a stable future in Syria.

Original Source: www.france24.com