The EU has mobilized over 1 billion euros for the fight against IS.

(Baonghean) - In a recent announcement, the European Union (EU) stated that it will spend more than 1 billion euros to fund political, social, and humanitarian measures not only in Syria and Iraq, but also in Lebanon, Jordan, and Türkiye.

The headquarters of the European Union in Strasbourg. Photo: AFP

Recently, an EU spokesperson announced that Europe will disburse 1 billion euros over two years to address the crises in Syria and Iraq, as well as the "threats" posed by the Islamic State (IS). Federica Mogherini, the European High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated that these funds will allow for the development of "a comprehensive strategy" for "political, social and humanitarian goals not only in Syria and Iraq, but also in Lebanon, Jordan and Türkiye."

Federica stated: “This package will strengthen Europe’s efforts to restore peace and security in areas ravaged by terrorism and subjected to prolonged violence.” Accordingly, the EU’s new strategy includes “a commitment to diplomacy and the provision of essential services in developing counter-extremism programs, combating terrorist financing, preventing the influx of foreign nationals into extremist organizations, and improving border control.”

EU members unanimously agreed on the plan, and by March, the drafters will present a detailed implementation roadmap for consideration by representatives of member states. According to a source from the European Commission, the EU has strengthened security and political cooperation with Arab countries and Turkey in the fight against extremist Islamic militants, particularly following the bloody attacks in France. In January, European foreign ministers also agreed to call on more allies in the global fight against terrorism.

Currently, with over €3.2 billion in aid, the EU remains the main funder for victims of the ongoing crisis in Syria. If the plan is approved, approximately 40% of the funds will continue to be used to support Syrian and Iraqi refugees in European aid centers in the Middle East. The EU's goal is to "prevent a domino effect" of the crisis in Syria and Iraq, or to help neighboring countries of these two nations cope with the influx of approximately 3.8 million refugees, while also "ensuring safety and supporting the ability of refugees to rebuild their communities."

The remainder of the fund will be dedicated to the “fight against terrorism” by strengthening “the work of EU member states in preventing the influx of their citizens into fighting for extremist organizations” and helping countries in the union “combat violent extremism”.

Chu Thanh

According to Liberation