World News: EU and partners promise US$ 6.3 bil. in aid for Syria and its neighbors

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The European Union and its international partners have pledged substantial financial aid to support Syria and its neighboring countries during a critical transition period following the ousting of its former leader.

At a conference held in Brussels on Monday, donors committed approximately 6.3 billion U.S. dollars in aid for Syria and its neighbors, with the EU pledging nearly 2.7 billion dollars.

This year's total pledges are lower than the 8.2 billion dollars raised last year, partly due to reductions in the United States foreign aid budget.

Meanwhile, Syria's interim government participated in the conference for the first time, with its foreign minister in attendance.

Rwanda announced it officially cut diplomatic ties with Belgium on Monday, citing interference in regional matters.

The Rwandan government announced that all Belgian diplomats must depart within 48 hours, raising concerns about escalating bilateral tensions.

The decision follows accusations that Belgium has sided against Rwanda with regard to the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rwanda insists that Belgium has taken sides in the regional conflict and continues to mobilize against Rwanda in various forums, employing what it describes as "lies and manipulation" to destabilize the region.

Finally, in the United States, New York City celebrated its 264th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on Monday local time, attracting approximately 2 million spectators and featuring 150,000 marchers.

Participants included school bands, Irish pipe and drum ensembles, and uniformed personnel from the police and fire departments.

Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul were among the attendees, and also wore green for the occasion.

Meanwhile, in Chicago, the annual tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green with an eco-friendly dye, a practice that began in 1962, was once again observed.

Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.