European nations pledged $6.5 billion in aid at the 9th International Conference in Support of Syria held in Brussels, aimed at reconstructing the war-torn country. This includes $4.6 billion in grants and $1.7 billion in low-interest loans, marking a decrease from previous commitments. The funding will go directly to Syria’s new leadership as efforts to support a peaceful transition continue amidst ongoing challenges.
On Monday, during the 9th International Conference in Support of Syria at the European Council headquarters in Brussels, European nations pledged nearly $6.5 billion to aid in Syria’s reconstruction following over 14 years of civil war. Of this amount, $4.6 billion is designated as grants, while the remaining $1.7 billion will be in low-interest loans. This total, slightly more than $6.3 billion, reflects a decrease from last year’s commitment of $8.1 billion.
The primary objective of this aid is to assist the new Syrian leadership in rebuilding essential infrastructure and fostering a peaceful political transition. Historically, funding targeted neighboring countries hosting Syrian refugees, but for the first time, assistance will be directed towards the Assad regime’s successor.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen remarked, “In the past, we have worked for Syria and for Syrians. Today, we can finally work with Syria. The future of Syria is for all Syrians to build. For every step towards an inclusive political transition, the EU will step up its support.”
According to World Vision, approximately 14 million people have been forcibly displaced due to the war, with over half having fled Syria since the onset of the Assad crackdown in 2011. Presently, it is reported that 90% of the remaining population lives below the poverty line, and 16.7 million individuals require humanitarian assistance, according to UN agencies.
Rebuilding the devastated economy and infrastructure is expected to cost between $250 billion to $400 billion. Syrian leader Ahmed al-Shara has reached out to the global community for assistance with the country’s substantial needs.
In a video message of appreciation, UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated, “The United Nations remains committed to helping Syrians build a country where reconciliation, justice, freedom, and prosperity are shared realities for all.”
The conference occurred amid continuing violence against certain minority groups in Syria, such as Alawites and Christians. There is uncertainty regarding the new government’s commitment to protecting minority rights.
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani reassured delegates that aid would be extended to all communities and emphasized the importance of facilitating refugee returns. He expressed, “We believe in the true sense of citizenship, the citizenship of every single citizen of Syria, regardless of their ethnicity or religion.”
This conference marked a significant milestone as it was the first occasion Syrian authorities participated in the annual event in Brussels. Historically, the United States has been the largest aid donor to Syria; however, this year, Germany topped contributions with $326 million, followed by the United Kingdom at $208 million. The U.S. has yet to announce new funding commitments.
U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary Natasha Franceschi communicated that while the U.S. will continue to provide assistance per its policies, she expects other nations to also share the financial responsibility. EU Crisis Management Commissioner Hadja Lahbib acknowledged, “We will need to share the burden,” indicating reliance on collective efforts to meet the challenges ahead.
The European conference successfully pledged significant financial support for Syria’s reconstruction, marking a shift in aid distribution towards the Assad regime’s successor. Leaders emphasized the importance of rebuilding infrastructure and fostering a peaceful political transition. The commitment of nearly $6.5 billion is a crucial step toward recovery, although challenges remain regarding the protection of minority rights and refugee returns. Collaboration among nations will be vital in addressing Syria’s substantial rebuilding needs.
Original Source: allisrael.com
