''I am visiting Syria to demonstrate support for the Syrian people and the authorities. After 50 years of dictatorship and 14 years of civil war, Syria faces enormous challenges. The United Nations estimates that 15 million Syrians are in need of humanitarian assistance. Since December 2024, around three million Syrians have returned to their home areas. Norway is therefore contributing to development and improved living conditions for the Syrian population and is now providing NOK 150 million, including for initiatives in health, electricity and mine clearance,'' said Minister of Foreign Affairs Eide.
During his visit to Syria, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide met, among others, President al-Sharaa, Foreign Minister Shaibani, the Speaker of Parliament, representatives of civil society and the United Nations.
Photo: With Syrian women leaders and politicians, including the Norwegian-Syrian member of parliament Hanan Al Baalkhe. Credit: MFA/Solberg
Photo: With Syrian women leaders and politicians, including the Norwegian-Syrian member of parliament Hanan Al Baalkhe. Credit: MFA/Solberg
The situation remains fragile
''Twenty months after the fall of Assad, the situation in Syria remains fragile. In many areas, developments are promising; in others, they are a cause for concern. For Syria to succeed, the international community must provide political and economic support,'' said the Foreign Minister.
Norwegian support to Syria in 2026 will amount to approximately NOK 420 million in total, including humanitarian assistance and support for transitional justice. The objective is to restore basic services for the population throughout the country.
In addition, core funding to the United Nations and multilateral organisations will amount to approximately NOK 100 million.
''In my meetings with President al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Shaibani, I acknowledged the positive developments in several areas. It is encouraging that Syria has increased its engagement with the international community, that several million Syrians have returned to the country, and that important steps have been taken in the political transition process,'' said Eide.
The Foreign Minister also expressed concern about reports of violence against ethnic and religious minorities. He stressed that human rights, including women’s rights, must form the foundation for Syria’s continued development.