Syria will attend a donor conference in Brussels for the first time, aimed at supporting its transition post-Assad. The interim government seeks legitimacy and aid amidst significant reconstruction costs, strife, and humanitarian challenges. The EU’s cautious support hinges on the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and stability.
Syria is set to participate in a donor conference for the first time, a pivotal moment following the ousting of President Bashar Assad by insurgent forces last December. The European Union is organizing the event in Brussels, scheduled for a one-day meeting with the aim to garner international support for fostering a peaceful transition in Syria. This session marks the ninth iteration of such conferences and is co-chaired by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.
Attending the conference will be Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, representing the interim government, which aims to establish its legitimacy on the global stage and seek the lifting of sanctions in addition to short-term assistance. The backdrop is concerning, as the country is still grappling with the aftermath of prolonged civil conflict and a fragmented territorial control,
The reconstruction of Syria is estimated to require an investment of at least $250 billion, a figure potentially rising to $400 billion amidst ongoing Western sanctions that limit economic recovery efforts. The interim government, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, who recently signed a temporary constitution, faces skepticism from various minority groups in the country regarding the future governance structure.
Compounding these challenges are recent escalations of violence attributed to loyalist factions of the previous regime, targeting both civilians and emerging power structures. The EU has reiterated its commitment to support a unified and peaceful Syria, delineating that any aid will depend heavily on the interim government’s adherence to inclusive governance practices, free from malign foreign influences.
Additionally, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with vast sections of the population lacking basic services such as electricity and clean water, and unemployment rates soaring. After years of conflict, millions have been displaced, amplifying the urgency of international humanitarian support. Despite these obstacles, there is some optimism; U.N. humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher expressed a more favorable operational environment compared to the previous regime.
The primary objective of the forthcoming conference is not only to accumulate aid pledges but also to address Syria’s pressing economic necessities. A call for calm in the region is essential to facilitate rebuilding efforts in infrastructure, health, and education sectors, ensuring opportunities for employment and sustainable livelihood programs are developed for the Syrian populace.
The European Union’s forthcoming donor conference represents a significant milestone for Syria’s transition following the fall of Assad. While the interim government seeks legitimacy and economic support amidst challenges posed by ongoing violence and severe humanitarian needs, coordinated international efforts remain crucial. The outcomes of the conference will not only impact Syria’s immediate recovery but also its long-term stability and governance structure. As stakeholders navigate these complex dynamics, the emphasis on inclusive and peaceful reunification will be paramount.
Original Source: apnews.com
