The European Union will convene its 9th international Conference in support of Syria on 17 March, in Brussels. For the first time, Syrian interim authorities have been invited, together with representatives of the United Nations, Syria's neighbouring states and other regional partners.
This year's edition comes at a historic moment, following the fall of the Assad regime, where the Syrian people have the chance to re-take control of their destiny and rebuild their country, said European Commision's statement.
EU High Representative / Vice-President Kaja Kallas, Commissioner Dubravka Šuica, and Commissioner Hadja Lahbib will co-chair the Ministerial event ‘Standing with Syria: meeting the needs for a successful transition'.
This event aims to gather international support for a Syrian-owned, inclusive transition, from assistance to socio-economic recovery, the satement said.
Since 2011, the EU and EU Member States have mobilised more than EUR 37 billion in humanitarian, development, economic and stabilisation assistance, supporting Syrians both inside the country and across the region.
"This is a time of dire needs and challenges for Syria, as tragically evidenced by the recent wave of violence in coastal areas. This is also a time of hope, as we welcome the agreement reached on 10 March between the Syrian Interim authorities and the Syrian Democratic Forces, which could pave the way for a better future for Syrians," - said EU High Representative.
The Conference comes at a time when the situation in Syria remains fragile, as seen by the recent violence against civilians and attacks on security forces. It will therefore address the developments in the country, the initial steps of the transition and the international community's possible support, as well as the immediate needs of the Syrian people with a focus on socio-economic recovery, whilst continuing to address Syria's unabating humanitarian needs.
"This year’s Brussels Conference will be a moment of immense responsibility: We must spare no effort to assist an inclusive transition that gives all Syrians a chance to rebuild their country in line with their aspirations. We count on a strong participation and pledges by all partners to make this a transformational and decisive effort," - Kaja Kallas added.
The regional dimension of the conference will stress the EU's sustained support to Syrians, as well as host communities, also in neighbouring countries, in this period of transition.
The EU also intends to support a meeting of Syrian civil society from across Syria and the diaspora, in Damascus, at a later date.
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