Merkel Urges to Ensure Access to Syrian Areas in Need of Humanitarian Aid

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday that amid the ongoing conflict in Syria it is important to keep access to humanitarian assistance in the areas that need it the most.

LONDON (Sputnik) — She also pledged some 1 billion euros ($ 1.12 million) to the active UN humanitarian programs in Syria.

"Inside Syria humanitarian rights are being trampled. We must make sure we at least get access to provide aid," Merkel said at the Syria Donors Conference 2016 underway in London.

Earlier in the day, the international conference opened in London, bringing together world leaders, international organizations and charities in an attempt to draw attention to the plight of the Syrian people.

Syria has been in a state of civil war since 2011, with government forces fighting several opposition factions and militant groups. The ongoing conflict forced millions of Syrians to flee their homes and seek refuge either in the neighboring countries or in Europe.