International donors have committed $6.3 billion in aid for Syria at the Brussels conference, aimed at stabilizing the country and aiding its recovery following the civil war and Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The pledge, announced by EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica on Monday, consists of $4.58 billion in grants and $1.7 billion in loans.
During the 9th international conference in Brussels, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed plans to further bolster the EU’s commitment by increasing the pledge for 2025 and 2026 to approximately $2.7 billion. She emphasized that greater support is essential for Syrians both abroad and those who wish to return home.
“Syrians need more support, whether they remain in exile or choose to return,” von der Leyen stated. “This is why we are increasing our pledge to nearly $2.7 billion for the coming years, to ensure that both Syrians and their neighboring countries receive the necessary assistance.”
Von der Leyen also underscored the urgency of rebuilding Syria’s cities and revitalizing its economy. She noted that the EU has lifted sanctions on key economic sectors, including energy transport and related financial transactions, to encourage investment in the country’s reconstruction. “There are entire cities to be rebuilt and an economy to be restarted,” she said. “This is why we have suspended sanctions on key economic sectors, and we are ready to do more to attract the necessary investments.”
The European Commission president also highlighted the importance of the Syrian authorities’ commitment to protecting minorities and establishing an inclusive government, which she described as “vital” for the country’s long-term reconciliation.
Looking forward, von der Leyen announced plans to hold a civil society dialogue at the Brussels conference in Damascus, emphasizing that all Syrians—whether those who stayed or those who fled—deserve the opportunity to shape their future. “The future of Syria belongs to all Syrians,” she said. “Those who have always fought for freedom, those who have just discovered hope, those who fled, and those who stayed. This must be the promise of a new Syria, and we will do everything in our power to help make that vision a reality.”
Since 2017, the EU has hosted an annual donor conference in support of Syria, providing grants and aid to both the war-torn country and the nations hosting Syrian refugees. This year’s event was attended by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al Shaibani.
