Doha: Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad Al Sheibani has underlined that the reconstruction of Syria is not only a national responsibility but also the responsibility of the entire international community, pointing to the importance of the positive steps taken by the European Union (EU), including the suspension of some sanctions.
According to Qatar News Agency, in his speech at the 9th Brussels Donors' Conference on Syria, held Monday, Al Sheibani said that this meeting in Brussels is a moral duty towards the plight in Syria and a real opportunity to strengthen international efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Syrians.
The Foreign Minister stressed that Syrians will not tolerate any infringement on Syria's sovereignty and unity and that the government is working to promote reconciliation and national dialogue and protect the rights of all its citizens. He stressed belief in citizenship and equality in rights and duties for all citizens, noting that there are threats to Syria's security from several quarters.
Al Sheibani lauded the positive steps taken by the European Union (EU), including the suspension of some sanctions, noting that these measures did not live up to the aspirations of the Syrian people. He pointed out that the continuation of sanctions means that the Syrian people are being punished, and they must be lifted because they are preventing Syria's renaissance.
The Foreign Minister explained that the reconstruction of Syria is not only a national responsibility but also the responsibility of the entire international community and that the Syrian government affirms its commitment to working with humanitarian partners to ensure that aid reaches those who deserve it. Al Shaibani called on all donor countries to contribute effectively to reconstruction efforts in Syria and support sustainable development projects, explaining that the return of displaced persons to their country requires international efforts and a contribution to revitalizing the Syrian economy.
European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen announced during the opening of the conference that the European Union (EU) is increasing its pledge to Syrians inside the country and the region to approximately EUR 2.5 billion (USD 2.7 billion) for 2025 and 2026. "We call on all of you who are here today to do the same, if possible because at this critical time, the people of Syria need us more than ever," Von der Leyen added.