A.Anand:Canada announces the continuation of measures to assist the people of Syria.

The recent announcement from Global Affairs Canada marks a significant milestone in the country's commitment to providing humanitarian aid to Syria, a nation beleaguered by 13 years of devastating conflict.

Foreign Minister Anita Anand's decision to extend a crucial humanitarian lifeline for an additional six months is a testament to Canada's dedication to alleviating the suffering of the Syrian people. This move is not merely a bureaucratic gesture, but a lifeline that will have a tangible impact on the lives of millions of Syrians struggling to survive amidst the ruins of their war-torn country.

The extension of this humanitarian program allows sanctioned Syrian banks, including the Central Bank, to receive transactions from Canadian charities, diaspora groups, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This development is particularly significant, as it will enable doctors in Aleppo to access Canadian-funded medical supplies through previously forbidden financial channels. Furthermore, civil society workers will be able to transfer funds to rebuild bombed schools without fear of prosecution, thereby facilitating the reconstruction of essential infrastructure.

The arithmetic of Syria's humanitarian crisis is stark: 90% of the population lives below the poverty line, and a staggering 16 million people require aid. Canada's commitment of $4.7 billion since 2016 has been a significant contribution to the international effort to alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people. The extension of the humanitarian program will provide sharper teeth to this commitment, enabling money to reach where it is most needed, rather than being hindered by sanctions.

However, beneath the humanitarian gesture lies a steely resolve to hold the Assad regime accountable for its actions. Canada has simultaneously tightened the vise on the regime, with 56 entities and 225 individuals remaining frozen out globally. The International Court of Justice case against Syria for systemic torture will proceed uninterrupted, demonstrating Canada's commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law.

This dual-track approach reveals Canada's calculus: to flood the Syrian people with aid while draining the regime's resources. For Syrian-Canadians wiring money to relatives, and for NGOs operating in the ruins of Idlib, this extension means survival measured in days. The permit's expiration in November will pose a significant test to Syria's stalled but still breathing political transition.

In the midst of this complex and challenging landscape, Canada's decision to extend the humanitarian program offers a glimmer of hope. By opening financial oxygen lines into the sanction-choked room, Canada has provided a vital lifeline to the Syrian people. As the international community continues to grapple with the complexities of the Syrian conflict, Canada's commitment to providing humanitarian aid and upholding human rights serves as a beacon of hope for a more just and equitable future.

The implications of this decision will be far-reaching, with significant consequences for the humanitarian landscape in Syria. As the program unfolds, it will be essential to monitor its impact and adjust course as necessary to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most. Moreover, Canada's leadership on this issue serves as a catalyst for other nations to re-examine their own approaches to humanitarian aid in Syria, and to consider the potential benefits of a similar dual-track approach.

Ultimately, the success of this initiative will depend on the collective efforts of the international community, working in tandem with Syrian civil society and NGOs to provide vital aid and support to those affected by the conflict. As the situation in Syria continues to evolve, Canada's commitment to providing humanitarian aid and upholding human rights will remain a crucial component of the international response, serving as a testament to the power of humanitarian action in the face of unimaginable suffering.

In conclusion, the extension of Canada's humanitarian program in Syria is a significant development that will have a tangible impact on the lives of millions of Syrians. As the international community continues to navigate the complexities of the Syrian conflict, Canada's leadership on this issue serves as a model for other nations to follow, demonstrating the importance of providing humanitarian aid and upholding human rights in the face of overwhelming adversity. By working together, we can ensure that the people of Syria receive the aid and support they so desperately need, and that a more just and equitable future is within reach.