Thank you, President
In Syria, against many odds, there is hope. After more than 50 years of dictatorial rule and 14 years of war - the situation remains fragile. The recent violence in Suweyda is a stark reminder of this. Yet, amid the uncertainty, Syrians dare to imagine a different future.
The international community must do what it can to support the Syrian people and help ensure Syria’s successful transition.
I want to highlight three points:
First, we must support efforts to make Syria safe, inclusive and just for all its people, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, gender or political affiliation. I call for a strong, unified stance against sectarian violence and hate speech. I am alarmed by the significant loss of life in recent days in Suweyda and deeply troubled by credible reports of different armed groups having committed grave acts of violence against civilians.
I welcome President Al Sharaa's strong message on accountability for all crimes, conveyed in his statement upon receiving the report from the Independent National Commission on the coastal violence earlier this year. We anticipate a release in full of this report. Those responsible for violations must face justice. Civilians must be protected.
We welcome the ceasefire after the recent clashes and urge all parties to respect it. Violent escalation risks undermining efforts towards a peaceful transition. We call on all parties to urgently ensure safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access so that the population get access to the life-saving aid they are entitled to, such as health services, water and food. Humanitarian and health personnel must be protected.
Second, Syria’s territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty must be respected.
We have voiced our deep concerns about Israeli attacks compromising Syria’s territorial integrity. The attacks contribute to increased instability and tensions between groups. A stable Syria with security for all is essential for stability in the Middle East. It is also important that Syria not become a breeding ground for extremism - a threat to both the Region and Europe.
My last point is this. As the country enters a critical phase of transition, it is imperative that all Syrians are represented, protected and empowered to shape their future. Now is the time for a truly inclusive transition. The aim is for all Syrians to feel safe and to experience governance that includes everyone – where women can fully participate and a vibrant civil society can thrive.
The future of Syria is being shaped today.
We recognize the steps already taken by the Syrian [transitional] government in assuming responsibility for the country’s future. It is now essential to continue building on this foundation by advancing an inclusive process, ensuring that the Syrian people are empowered to shape their future and to contribute to a democratic and sustainable Syria where human rights are upheld.
Thank you, President.