This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Yesterday, the European Union, via the Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian crisis, adopted a €130 million assistance package to support Syrian refugees and local communities in Jordan and Lebanon in key areas such as social protection, healthcare services or waste management. For Lebanon, the funds will help also alleviating the consequences of the Beirut port blast, which affected both Syrian refugees and Lebanese people. High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Josep Borrell, said: “ 15 March 2021 sadly marks ten years since the start of the Syrian crisis. A tragic anniversary; one we would rather not have. The continuing conflict, the COVID-19 pandemic and a general regional economic deterioration have exacerbated the dire conditions across the region. The EU will host the fifth Brussels Conference on “Supporting the future of Syria and the region” on 29 and 30 March to reaffirm international support for the UN efforts for a negotiated political solution to the Syrian conflict in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, and seek to sustain international support for those in need. The EU will continue to do all it can to support the Syrian people, Syrian civil society, Syrian refugees and their host communities in neighbouring countries. They deserve a brighter, safer and more prosperous future. It is our goal to help them achieve it.“