Obama & Erdogan Agree to Continue Supporting Syrian Rebels. Obama To Send $195M More in Aid

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

August 07, 2013

Readout of President Obama’s Call with Prime Minister Erdogan of Turkey

President Obama spoke by phone today from California with Prime Minister Erdogan of Turkey, at the Prime Minister’s request, about developments in Syria and Egypt.  The President and Prime Minister discussed the danger of foreign extremists in Syria and agreed on the importance of supporting a unified and inclusive Syrian opposition.  The President and Prime Minister expressed concern about the situation in Egypt and a shared commitment to supporting a democratic and inclusive way forward.  The two leaders agreed to have their teams continue to coordinate closely to promote our shared interests.  The President gave his best wishes to the Prime Minister and the Turkish people on the beginning of their Ramazan holiday.

Obama Announces More Humanitarian Aid to Syria

U.S. will provide more than $195 million in additional humanitarian assistance for people affected by the Syrian war.

Arutz Sheva - U.S. President Barack Obama announced on Wednesday that the United States would increase the humanitarian aid it provides to civil war torn Syria.

In a statement on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the month of Ramadan, Obama announced more than $195 million in additional humanitarian assistance to provide life-saving food, medical care, and relief supplies for people affected by the ongoing conflict in Syria.

The new contribution brings U.S. humanitarian aid to over $1 billion dollars since the Syrian crisis began, noted the statement.

“The United States remains the single-largest contributor of humanitarian assistance for the people of Syria. The United States is providing humanitarian aid to help 3.5 million people across all 14 governorates in Syria and continues to work through all possible channels to deliver aid to those in need in Syria, including through the United Nations, international and non-governmental organizations, and local Syrian organizations,” said the statement.   More