EU Hosts International Donor Conference for Syria’s Recovery

The EU’s donor conference seeks financial support for Syria’s recovery after Assad’s ousting. With Syrian authorities in attendance for the first time, the aim is to foster stability amid ongoing humanitarian crises. Potential U.S. aid cuts could hinder financial contributions, highlighting the need for increased involvement from Arab countries.

The European Union convened an international donor conference in Brussels to seek financial aid for Syria’s recovery following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad. Notably, Syrian representatives, including interim Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani, will attend the event for the first time. The gathering aims to foster stability in Syria, which has endured 14 years of civil conflict resulting in massive refugee outflows.

The conference emphasizes the urgent need for a successful transition in Syria, despite recent violent outbreaks that have undermined confidence in the new Islamist-led authorities. An EU official highlighted, “Our objective with this conference is to stand with Syria while stressing the need for a successful transition.”

Syria faces overwhelming recovery challenges, with extensive infrastructural damage and a devastated economy. The United Nations estimates that at current growth rates, it would take over 50 years for Syria to regain its pre-war economic status. Approximately 16.7 million people remain in dire need of humanitarian assistance, necessitating immediate responses from international donors.

Syria’s new leadership, under Ahmed al-Sharaa, is actively requesting support, and the EU has begun relaxing certain sanctions. Nonetheless, they insist on adherence to promises of an inclusive political transition. While there have been constructive developments such as constitutional reforms, recent violent incidents have raised concerns regarding the safety of civilians, particularly within the Alawite community.

Last year’s donor conference generated 7.5 billion euros ($8.2 billion), but funding for this year’s efforts may be adversely affected by potential cuts in U.S. foreign aid, as indicated by President Donald Trump’s actions. U.S. involvement has historically been a backbone for humanitarian efforts in Syria, raising fears of decreased available resources as the EU anticipates that Arab nations will fill the funding gap. Future conferences are planned to address reconstruction funding needs in Syria.

In summary, the EU’s donor conference in Brussels marks a pivotal moment for Syria’s post-Assad recovery. With significant needs for humanitarian assistance and reconstruction funds, the presence of Syrian authorities aims to facilitate international collaboration. Nonetheless, the outcome may be challenged by a decrease in U.S. contributions, underscoring the necessity for Middle Eastern nations to enhance their support in addressing Syria’s humanitarian crisis and long-term recovery prospects.

Original Source: www.france24.com