The EU has launched a new aid initiative for Syria, led by Germany, which includes participation from Syrian authorities for the first time. The initiative aims to address severe humanitarian needs amid ongoing volatility and violence in the country, and Germany has pledged an additional 300 million euros for this cause.
On Monday, Germany initiated a new round of aid pledges for Syria during an EU-hosted donor conference following the removal of Bashar al-Assad. Notably, Syrian authorities, represented by interim Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani, will participate for the first time, as reported by News.Az. The engagement comes amid ongoing efforts by Western and regional powers to facilitate Syria’s return to stability after 14 years of civil strife that resulted in millions of refugees.
The recent escalation of violence in Syria—the most severe since Assad’s ousting in December—has shaken confidence in the newly established Islamist-led government. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized that a peaceful future for Syria hinges on an inclusive political process. She announced Germany’s commitment of an additional 300 million euros to aid organizations assisting Syrians both within the country and in neighboring regions.
Historically, the EU’s annual donor conference, now in its eighth year, has concentrated on providing support primarily for refugees in neighboring countries, deliberately avoiding relations with the Assad regime. This year’s conference aims to increase humanitarian funding to address urgent needs faced by Syrians and refugees.
Syria remains in a critical humanitarian crisis, with extensive areas devastated, and an economy severely affected by years of isolation resulting from Assad’s 2011 crackdown on opposition groups. Presently, approximately 16.7 million individuals in Syria require assistance, and the United Nations warns that it may take over 50 years to restore the nation to its pre-war economic standing under current growth trajectories.
The EU’s aid drive for Syria marks a significant shift in diplomatic engagement following Bashar al-Assad’s ousting, with Germany leading efforts to provide humanitarian support. The participation of Syrian officials, especially after a recent surge in violence, underscores the precariousness of the situation. However, the overwhelming humanitarian needs and the long path ahead for economic recovery highlight the challenges faced by Syria in its journey toward stability and peace.
Original Source: news.az
