Guterres delivers speech to People’s Assembly tomorrow, concluding his visit to Syria

UN Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in the Syrian capital, Damascus, yesterday, Saturday. During a joint press conference with the interim government's Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, Guterres stated that his visit—his first to Syria since assuming office and the first by a UN Secretary-General in 17 years—reflects the significance of the current phase the country is undergoing. He expressed confidence in the Syrians' ability to overcome the effects of the war and build a more stable future.

The UN Secretary-General called on the international community to support Syria's recovery efforts, emphasizing that the country stands at a new juncture offering opportunities for reconstruction and the consolidation of stability following years of conflict. He noted that supporting Syria represents an investment in regional security and stability.

He pointed out that the Syrian people have demonstrated great resilience despite years of conflict, stressing that the current phase is not limited to recovering from the war's impact but also offers an opportunity to build a state where all Syrians enjoy stability and prosperity without exclusion.

He emphasized that achieving this goal requires "leadership, trust-building, foresight, and the inclusion of all Syrians in shaping their country's future," asserting that "the United Nations has no agenda regarding Syria; rather, our agenda is that of the Syrian government and the Syrian people."

He noted that Syria’s reconstruction cannot take place without international support, calling for the rehabilitation of basic services and infrastructure, the revitalization of the economy, job creation, and the establishment of conditions for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of refugees and displaced persons, as well as support for Syria’s reintegration into regional and global economies.

He stated that the United Nations stands ready to continue supporting the transition process—including transitional justice efforts, the drafting of a permanent constitution, and the holding of free and fair elections—alongside the continued provision of humanitarian and development assistance.

Regarding the Golan Heights, the Secretary-General reiterated the need to respect Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, deeming ongoing violations in the area unacceptable and emphasizing that the Golan is Syrian territory.

Guterres’s visit to Damascus continues today with meetings involving civil society representatives, women’s groups, and representatives from various segments of Syrian society; he is scheduled to conclude his visit on Monday by addressing the new Syrian People's Assembly before departing for Cyprus.

Sh-S

ANHA