The special envoy is visiting Syria for the second time since December 8. He told reporters in the capital Damascus that he had a meeting with various parties, including the Syrian authorities.
Gayer Pedersen expressed hope that this period of political change in Syria will receive the support of the international community.
“A strong international consensus has emerged that support for a new Syria is needed. We need to see the political transition succeed. “It is a shared opinion that it cannot fail.” The Special Envoy emphasized an inclusive political transition that would pave the way for a constitution and fair elections.
Geyer Pedersen said the process must proceed under Syrian leadership and ownership to restore the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and fulfill the legitimate aspirations of ordinary people.
“These are the basic principles of Security Council Resolution 2254. “Now the Syrian people themselves must come forward and take the lead.”
The UN Special Envoy identified several key challenges during his visit to Syria. This includes integrating various armed groups into a national army and tackling challenges emerging in the country’s northeast, where fighting between rival groups continues along the border with Türkiye and Iraq.
In addition to additional justice, economic recovery, reconstruction, civilian protection, he spoke of being aware of Israel’s presence in Syria. Note that the Israeli army has strengthened its bases in the occupied Golan.
clear resolution
The special envoy referred to detailed discussions during his meeting with Syrian caretaker administration head Ahmed al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Shaybani.
“I welcome the many proposals and messages that have been conveyed in our meeting with the Syrian people and Mr. Shara.” According to him, now the people of Syria and the international community must come together to fulfill these promises.
Geyer Pedersen said Syria’s 14-year civil war and 54 years of dynastic rule are facing many challenges for the caretaker administration.
He urged to avoid retaliatory attacks and said that the protection of all Syrian civilians must be ensured.
Diplomatic hall
Geyer Pedersen emphasized the need for a united, Syrian National Army in Syria as vital to stability in Syria. He emphasized on peaceful and diplomatic solutions in the wake of the unrest in northeastern Syria. He said formal national dialogue process is important and should be inclusive.
According to him, transitional justice is an important issue and calls for justice, accountability and reparations need to be supported in Syrian society. This is a fundamental requirement for promoting sustainable peace and social cohesion in the country.
The Special Envoy called on the international community to adopt a new approach, saying that the sanctions regime imposed on the country must be reconsidered to allow the emergence of a new Syria.
He assured that the United Nations is ready to provide all possible assistance during this period of political transition in Syria.