UN Representative Highlights Necessity for Comprehensive Political Shift in Syria, Recognizes Economic Hurdles
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Damascus, Dec 18 (NationPress) The United Nations special envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, remarked on Wednesday that he perceives potential for a "new Syria" to emerge following the recent political changes in the country, despite the substantial challenges that persist.
During a press conference in Damascus after several days of discussions, Pedersen highlighted his meetings with leaders from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), various armed groups, members of the Syrian National Coalition, families of the detained and missing, civil society representatives, and women activists.
"It has only been 11 days since HTS and other factions entered Damascus, so it is still early in the process," Pedersen stated, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
"However, there is considerable optimism that we may witness the dawn of a new Syria—one that, adhering to Security Council Resolution 2254, develops a new constitution that provides a social contract for all Syrians and eventually facilitates free and fair elections following a transitional phase," he added.
Pedersen emphasized that the conflict is ongoing. While Damascus appears relatively stable, certain regions remain volatile, especially in Kurdish-controlled areas in the northeast. He welcomed the recent truce renewal there, advocating for a political resolution and cautioning that the region's issues must be resolved to achieve lasting peace.
The envoy also pointed out Syria's severe economic difficulties as a significant concern, advocating for prompt humanitarian aid, reconstruction efforts, and possible sanctions relief. "We need to witness economic recovery and ideally initiate a process to lift sanctions," he asserted.
Pedersen stressed the importance of a credible and inclusive political transition that encompasses a wide array of Syrian society.
The UN, he reaffirmed, is prepared to support and collaborate with Syria's new authorities. "I am eager to continue this dialogue," he said, committing to work closely with the administration on pressing issues facing the nation.
