UN 
(SDGTALKING) – The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that this year’s severe drought in Syria could result in the loss of 75% of wheat production. It is estimated that millions of people could be at risk of starvation.
FAO Syria Representative Toni Ettel told Reuters that they anticipate a wheat shortage of 2.7 million tons this year, which is enough to feed 16 million people. The drought has further devastated the already weakened agricultural sector due to the 13-year war. Farmers say they have been unable to harvest their crops due to insufficient irrigation and lack of rainfall.
US lifts sanctions
US President Donald Trump announced last week that all sanctions against Syria would be lifted. FAO official Ettel said the lifting of sanctions could be a lifeline for the agricultural sector.
EU High Representative for Foreign Policy Kaja Kallas indicated that EU countries could reach an agreement on further easing economic sanctions. The EU has already eased some restrictions on energy and infrastructure.
