17 Nations Discuss Plans to Aid Syria
World
On Sunday, representatives from 17 Middle Eastern and Western countries met in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss accelerating assistance to Syria’s new government and ensuring the interim leadership fulfills its commitment to forming an inclusive administration that represents all religious and ethnic groups.
The United States recently eased certain restrictions on humanitarian aid and energy supplies, enabling Qatar to send a gas tanker to Syria. However, Russia and Iran, which were dominant forces in Syria during the rule of former dictator Bashar al-Assad, were not invited to the summit.
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of this event underscores its desire to play a leading role in Syria’s reconstruction process. Riyadh positions itself as a key player alongside Turkey and Qatar in improving Syria’s infrastructure and governance.
Syria’s interim leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, expressed his intention to form a government that includes all factions. However, Western diplomats are concerned that the military successes of Sharaa’s Islamic group could hinder stability in the political process. The broader government formation and drafting of a new constitution, planned for March, are expected to face significant challenges.
Forming a new government and addressing poverty in Syria could prove highly complex. According to UN estimates, drafting a new constitution may take three years, while elections could require four years. Questions about the composition of the government, judicial system, and the integration of military forces remain contentious.
European countries aim to increase their assistance to Syria. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced an additional €50 million in aid to Syria. Additionally, the European Union plans to reassess sanctions that hinder the country’s reconstruction.
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of this event underscores its desire to play a leading role in Syria’s reconstruction process. Riyadh positions itself as a key player alongside Turkey and Qatar in improving Syria’s infrastructure and governance.
Syria’s interim leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, expressed his intention to form a government that includes all factions. However, Western diplomats are concerned that the military successes of Sharaa’s Islamic group could hinder stability in the political process. The broader government formation and drafting of a new constitution, planned for March, are expected to face significant challenges.
Forming a new government and addressing poverty in Syria could prove highly complex. According to UN estimates, drafting a new constitution may take three years, while elections could require four years. Questions about the composition of the government, judicial system, and the integration of military forces remain contentious.
European countries aim to increase their assistance to Syria. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced an additional €50 million in aid to Syria. Additionally, the European Union plans to reassess sanctions that hinder the country’s reconstruction.
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