In other news International donors *pledged nearly €6 billion for Syria* during a one-day conference in Brussels to encourage a peaceful political transition for the conflict-ravaged country. [AP <https://t.devex.com/Njg1LUtCTC03NjUAAAGZR-bhKEQ7Xim0q2TdvaqfpdvyNGeTOeaZ9_SSQn9JDBokIEsvDOTabGZi8WO58csfshvQ-m8=> ] The Food and Agriculture Organization warned unprecedented* H5N1 avian flu spread is decimating global bird populations* and threatening food security and supply in countries. [UN News <https://t.devex.com/Njg1LUtCTC03NjUAAAGZR-bhKCojDVLewXHVnxuVF1zAmIEVo9XtR7EYL8M6cu5X25dXin6pw5uKEI_b1y1007ntbCA=> ] The suspension of USAID funding is *straining vital health, demining, and education programs* across Southeast Asia, giving China an opportunity to expand its influence. [Nikkei Asia <https://t.devex.com/Njg1LUtCTC03NjUAAAGZR-bhKFbFYEQ9DEUVG4aXgvwSWufVeQJo02_ccNqSOUL8XD0e4KZB_Z_QGEW2tE4-bZZnRhE=> ]