EU calls for end to Syrian tragedy

As the crisis enters day 1000 in Syria on Sunday, European Commissioner for International Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Kristalina Georgieva, underlined Europes responsibilities and firm commitment to helping the Syrian people survive and the people of the region to cope with the crisis. "Sadly today marks one thousand days since the start of what has become the most disastrous humanitarian crisis in decades - the Syrian conflict," she said in a statement. "One thousand days of violence which has resulted in tens of thousands of men, women and children losing their lives, millions being displaced in the country and beyond its borders in search of safety. One thousand days of death, fear, hardship, deprivation and despair. One thousand days in which we are witnessing the creation of a lost generation," she stated. "This tragedy must end, and this can only be done politically. Our hopes, and especially those of the suffering Syrians, are now pinned on the second Geneva peace conference due to take place in Geneva on 22 January," said the EU Commissioner. She reiterated her plea, and that of the entire international humanitarian community, for the parties involved in this terrible conflict to facilitate humanitarian access to all those in need, to protect civilians and to respect International Humanitarian Law. "So far we have provided two billion euros to save lives and reduce suffering. We will be there to support humanitarian efforts as long as it is needed," added Georgieva. Source: KUNA