“It’s early days,” Geir Pedersen said, referring to the dramatic events less than two weeks ago that ended decades of dictatorship.
“But I think it is important to say that there is great hope that we may now see the beginning of a new Syria.”
He emphasized that any transition must be consistent with the UN Security Council 2254 resolutioncalls for a new constitution, free and fair elections, and an inclusive political process led by Syria.
Committed to full support
Mr. Pedersen reiterated the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the Syrian people in achieving these goals, while also acknowledging the significant challenges ahead.
He pointed to the unstable situation in many parts of the country, especially the northeast, where a ceasefire was recently extended.
“There is stability in Damascus, but there are challenges in some areas”, he noted and expressed the difficult economic situation.
“We need immediate humanitarian assistance, but we also need to make sure that Syria can be rebuilt, we can see an economic recovery and we can hopefully see the beginning as we begin the process of ending sanctions.”
Syria-led political process is vital: Security Council
Members of the United Nations Security Council also emphasized the importance of an inclusive and Syrian-led political process based on resolution 2254 (2015) facilitated by the United Nations.
In a press release issued late Tuesday, The ambassadors reaffirmed their strong commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and called on all countries to respect these principles..
“They also emphasized the need for Syria and its neighbors to jointly refrain from any actions or interventions that could undermine each other’s security.The statement noted, emphasizing the need to fight terrorism and prevent extremist groups such as ISIL/Da’esh from regaining a foothold in the country – where they have been active for many years.
Council members also reiterated their obligation to respect human rights, including the right to seek justice and international humanitarian law in all circumstances.
Funny images for children
Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis remains severe in the country, especially for children.
According to to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), More than 7.5 million children need humanitarian assistanceincluding 6.4 million children who are in urgent need of protection from forced labor, child marriage and recruitment into armed groups.
“After 14 years of war, millions of children have known nothing but conflict, forcing them to grow up too quickly,” said Edouard Beigbeder, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.
He emphasized the need for a large-scale social protection plan to prevent the most vulnerable and their families from falling into extreme poverty as fuel, bread and other goods prices rise. Fundamentals continue to increase.
The healthcare system remains fragile, with close 40% of medical facilities are not functioning In addition, landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) continue to pose a deadly risk, claiming the lives of at least 11 children in the past week alone..
Call to action
Mr. Beigbeder called on all parties and the international community to take four important steps, starting with the resumption of vital public services.
All possible actions must be taken to enable a strong humanitarian response and economic recovery, engaging both the public and private sectors, he said, in addition to scaling up support. humanitarian aid.
“All parties must uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law to ensure the protection of civilians at all times“, Mr. Beigbeder emphasized.
We’ll bring you other new developments as they happen throughout the day
