The people in Syria have been suffering from the armed conflict for almost a decade. We can scarcely imagine the lives of the millions who have been driven from their homes, the children whose dreams have been shattered, the victims of torture and the traumatised survivors. However, it is our moral duty to support them with humanitarian aid and to create prospects for a life in dignity. Germany remains committed to the victims of the war in Syria and its neighbouring countries and, as one of the largest humanitarian donors, will make a substantial contribution once again this year to funding the aid plans drawn up by the United Nations.

In order for this support to arrive, the cross-border delivery needed by the people in northern Syria must be ensured. The situation must not be allowed to deteriorate further there. We are thus doing our utmost to renew the cross-border Resolution as the basis for this aid.

However, the conflict in Syria will only be resolved through progress in the political process. We will therefore continue to do everything we can to support the endeavours by the United Nations and Special Envoy Geir Pedersen. We call on all actors in the conflict to do likewise. And we are actively supporting the investigation and prosecution of war crimes in Syria. Germany is a pioneer in the use of universal jurisdiction. One thing is certain – there will be no lasting peace without justice.