Damascus – New York: Europe and the Arabs

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on the international community to support Syria's recovery efforts, stressing that the country stands today "at a crossroads offering many opportunities" after years of devastating conflict. He emphasized that rebuilding Syria requires sustained international support to rehabilitate basic services and infrastructure, revive the economy, and create the conditions for the return of refugees and internally displaced persons.

During a joint press conference with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Sheibani in Damascus, Guterres said that his visit, the first by a UN Secretary-General to Syria in 17 years, carries special significance and reflects the depth of his relationship with the Syrian people and the importance of the current phase the country is going through.

Guterres recalled his time as UN High Commissioner for Refugees, praising what he described as the exceptional generosity of the Syrian people in welcoming refugees fleeing war and persecution. He added: “I then met Syrian families who had also been forced to flee the country, risking everything for a chance at safety. I met young Syrians whose only hope was to study, work, contribute, and live in peace, like everyone else. Those scenes have remained etched in my memory.” According to the UN News Bulletin, the Secretary-General said that the Syrian people have endured hardship, the agony of loss, and uncertainty for many years, but that despite this, “they have never lost the qualities that have long been at the heart of this country: resilience, talent, creativity, and a deep sense of identity and belonging.”

A bald, bearded man wearing glasses points upwards as he speaks with an elderly man with gray hair wearing a suit and red tie, in front of a white wall covered with Arabic images and writing.

UN/Ali Haj Sulieman. UN Secretary-General António Guterres (right) receives a briefing in Saydnaya, Syria. The Secretary-General said that Syria "stands today at a stage that presents new opportunities. These opportunities are not limited to recovering from the scars of conflict, but also include laying the foundations for a future in which all Syrians enjoy greater prosperity and stability, without exception."

He explained that achieving this goal will require leadership, confidence-building, and foresight. But above all, the Secretary-General said, it requires ensuring that every Syrian has a place in building their country's future,” stressing that “it is up to the Syrians to determine the future course of their country and to establish the institutions that will serve future generations.” Syria is a pillar of stability in the Middle East.

The Secretary-General emphasized that no country emerging from a brutal conflict that has lasted more than a decade can rebuild itself alone, noting that “this is a moment that requires the international community to support Syria with determination and foresight.” Guterres stressed that “Syria’s recovery is a humanitarian imperative as much as it is an investment in development, peace, and regional stability.” He called on the international community to contribute to restoring basic services and infrastructure, revitalizing the economy, creating job opportunities, and creating the conditions for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced persons. He also urged international financial institutions and development partners to help Syria reintegrate into the regional and global economies.

Guterres affirmed that the United Nations stands ready to support the transitional phase in Syria, including efforts to achieve transitional justice, draft a permanent constitution, and hold free and fair elections. He emphasized the organization's commitment to continuing to provide humanitarian and development assistance in line with Syria's national priorities.

He said, "We do not have a UN agenda regarding Syria." Our agenda is the agenda of the Syrian government and the Syrian people.”

He affirmed that the United Nations will continue to work with Syrians from all walks of life, and with the international community, in support of a future built by Syrians themselves, based on peace, dignity, and opportunities for all.
The Golan Heights

The Secretary-General reiterated the need for full respect for Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity, stressing that any violations of these principles are unacceptable and must cease.

Guterres described what is happening in the area around the Golan Heights as completely unacceptable, emphasizing that the Golan Heights are Syrian territory.

He added that the violations of the Disengagement Agreement are “undoubtedly very serious, but should not make us forget that the Golan Heights themselves are part of Syrian territory.”

The Visit Continues

This is the Secretary-General’s first visit to Syria since the fall of the previous regime. During his stay, he is scheduled to meet with President Ahmed al-Sharaa and a number of senior officials, as well as with women’s groups, representatives of civil society, and individuals from various segments of society.

Guterres is scheduled to deliver a speech on [date missing]. On Monday, he will deliver a speech before the new Syrian People's Assembly before later heading to Cyprus.