The UN Chief has designated Syria as the "pillar of stability in the Middle East today" and stated that the country is at an "inflection point," calling on the international community to seize this opportunity to assist a nation recovering from more than a decade of conflict.

In his remarks to journalists alongside Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, Mr. Guterres described his visit as "highly meaningful," building upon decades of cooperation with Syrians both in his former capacity as UN High Commissioner for Refugees and later as Secretary-General.

"For years, long before I became the Secretary-General, I worked closely with Syrians," he said, recalling communities that welcomed refugees fleeing conflict and persecution, as well as Syrian families who were eventually forced to flee their own country.

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"I met young Syrians whose hopes were simple and universal: learn, work, contribute, and live in peace." These experiences, he said, stayed with him and helped explain why it is important for him to be in Damascus now. "In fact, I consciously decided not to come to Syria from the beginning of brutal repression against its people until 2011 up to the fall of the regime."

Opportunity to Build a New Future

The Secretary-General noted that Syrians have endured years of "hardship, loss and uncertainty," but never lost their resilience, talent and creativity which define the country. "Today Syria stands at an inflection point." The opportunity now is not just to recover from conflict, but to lay foundations for a future that will be more stable, inclusive and prosperous for all Syrians.

He emphasized that rebuilding the country would require leadership and trust while ensuring all Syrians feel reflected in their nation's future. "Above all it will need every Syrian to see his place in the future of his homeland." And it is up to Syrians to define their path forward and shape institutions that will serve future generations."

The UN Chief warned that no country recovering from more than a decade of conflict can rebuild itself alone, calling for stronger international engagement. "This moment calls on the international community with determination and foresight to support Syria," he said. "Rebuilding Syria is a humanitarian imperative – it is also an investment in development, peace and regional stability."

He stated that the international community should help create conditions for economic recovery, restore basic services and infrastructure, expand livelihoods and job opportunities, and support safe, voluntary and dignified return of refugees and displaced persons. "International financial institutions and development partners also play a key role in helping Syria reconnect with regional and global economic opportunities."

"This is a moment for partnership and solidarity." He emphasized the UN's role and stated that the Organization is ready to accompany Syria through its transition. "We are prepared to support your political transition, including efforts to ensure transitional justice, drafting of a permanent constitution and arrangements for free and fair elections." We have no agenda for Syria

Mr. Guterres also reiterated the UN's support for Syria's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. "We emphasize the importance of fully respecting the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of Syria." "Any violation of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity is unacceptable and must stop." Regarding developments in the Golan Heights area, he added: "What is happening in the region around the Golan Heights is absolutely unacceptable."

"I would like to remind the international community that the Golan Heights are Syrian territory." The Secretary-General stated that the UN will continue to work with Syrians and international partners to support a "future defined by peace, dignity, and opportunities for the Syrian people themselves."

Pressure for Israeli Actions in Syria

In response to questions from journalists, the head of the UN repeated his call for an end to violations of Syria's territorial integrity and stated that the international community must play a more active role. "We believe that the current situation is unsustainable and must be stopped," he said, while also noting that UN staff in the field are working to mitigate the impact of ongoing developments. He acknowledged the divisions within the UN Security Council and pledged to continue advocating for this issue, insisting that "what belongs to Syria belongs to Syria, and it cannot be taken away."

Visit Continues

The visit is the Secretary-General's first trip to Syria since the fall of the previous regime. During his stay, he is expected to meet with President Ahmed al-Sharar and other senior officials, as well as with women's groups, civil society representatives, and members of various communities. On Monday, Mr. Guterres is scheduled to address the new People's Assembly of the Syrian Arab Republic before traveling to Cyprus.

un.org / gnews.cz