International Donors Pledge €5.8 Billion for Syria Amidst Ongoing Crisis

In Brussels, donors pledged €5.8 billion in aid for Syria, a decline from €7.5 billion last year. Significant contributions came from Germany and the UK. The Syrian regime is represented officially for the first time, pushing for more sanctions relief amidst escalating violence. Humanitarian needs remain critical, with millions still requiring assistance as recovery efforts face challenges.

At a recent conference in Brussels, international donors pledged €5.8 billion in aid for Syria, a decline compared to the previous year’s total of €7.5 billion. This conference, coordinated by the European Union, highlights the ongoing efforts to support the war-torn nation and its transition after the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad. The current aid includes €4.2 billion in grants and €1.6 billion in loans, reflecting a significant reduction in commitment as U.S. funding appears to lessen.

Significant contributions from individual nations include approximately $330 million from Germany and $210 million from the United Kingdom. EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the necessity of increased support for Syrians both abroad and for those returning home, stating that the EU is committed to strengthening its financial support significantly.

For the first time in history, the Syrian authorities were officially represented at the conference by interim foreign minister Asaad al-Shibani. However, the Syrian government is pressing for further sanctions relief, noting that existing measures have not met expectations. Calls for enhanced economic support are underscored by recent escalations in violence that have undermined confidence in the new government.

The EU has already eased sanctions affecting key sectors of Syria’s economy, yet the Syrian authorities seek even more favorable conditions for recovery. Shibani reiterated a commitment to upholding justice and citizenship rights for all Syrians, irrespective of their backgrounds.

Despite the renewed presence of Syrian representatives at donor conferences, much focus remains on providing humanitarian aid to the millions still suffering from the aftermath of the civil conflict. The dire humanitarian needs persist, with around 16.7 million individuals requiring assistance. Humanitarian organizations stress the urgency of continued support to avert further hardship and to help facilitate long-term recovery in Syria.

The recent pledging of €5.8 billion in aid for Syria at the Brussels conference represents a significant but disappointing decrease from previous commitments, primarily attributed to a reduction in U.S. support. The participation of Syrian authorities signals a possible shift towards engagement, yet the country’s dire humanitarian crisis persists. Ongoing international support remains crucial as Syria seeks stability and recovery following years of civil war.

Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com