The EU announced a commitment of €2.5 billion for Syria to support transition and recovery for 2025 and 2026, increasing its funding to meet the needs of Syrian populations and refugees. The announcement was made during the Brussels Conference focusing on Syrian-led recovery efforts, with calls for lifting sanctions by Syrian officials.
On Monday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the European Union’s commitment of nearly €2.5 billion for Syria for the years 2025 and 2026. This announcement occurred at the Brussels Conference titled “Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition,” which included participation from Syria’s transitional authorities and was hosted by the EU.
The EU has increased its financial support for Syria, raising the pledge for 2025 from €560 million to €720.5 million. This increased assistance is aimed at benefiting Syria’s population, Syrian refugees, and vulnerable host communities in Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq. For 2026, a commitment of €600 million has been established for these nations, along with €1.1 billion pledged for Syrian refugees and host communities in Turkiye for both years.
The conference aimed to improve coordination and efficiency among international partners and United Nations agencies, emphasizing the need for support that is both Syrian-led and owned. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani advocated for the lifting of sanctions and for reconstruction efforts, stating, “The stability of Syria positively impacts the stability of the region and the world.”
The European Union’s pledge of €2.5 billion for Syria signifies a strong commitment to supporting the region’s recovery and transition. The increased funding underlines the importance of providing aid to vulnerable communities and emphasizes the need for Syrian ownership of the recovery process. Additionally, the call for the lifting of sanctions highlights the interconnectedness of Syria’s stability with broader regional stability.
Original Source: shafaq.com
