Statement on the situation in the Great Lakes region
13 October 2025 – Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the UNSC meeting on the situation in the Great Lakes region
Statement by Permanent Representative of Slovenia to the United Nations Samuel Žbogar at UNSC meeting on the situation in the Middle East
Thank you very much, Mr. President.
I would also like to thank Assistant Secretary-General Khiari for his briefing.
Let me begin by reiterating our support to the Syrian people in rebuilding their country on a path towards a better future.
Today, I wish to make the following remarks:
First, we are deeply alarmed by the escalation of violence in Suweida province, which has reportedly resulted in hundreds of deaths and left many more injured and displaced. We call on all parties to adhere fully to the ceasefire, to put an end to sectarian discourse and instead engage in constructive dialogue, and prioritize the safety of civilians.
We strongly condemn all acts of violence targeting civilians, including arbitrary killings, which have been reported. These incidents demand immediate and transparent investigations and robust follow-up actions to ensure accountability, in line with international law and standards. We call on the Syrian authorities to deliver on their pledge to ensure accountability.
Second, we reiterate our urgent call for an immediate cessation of all violence across Syria. It is an imperative for the government to protect all communities and for all actors to refrain from any action that could endanger the diverse social fabric of the Syrian nation.
Third, we call on all neighbouring countries and external powers to respect Syria’s independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity and to contribute positively to the success of the transition in Syria, which remains of central importance for regional peace and stability.
We condemn the recent Israeli attacks on Syrian territory as well as reports of IDF redeployments in the Golan. We call on Israel to respect and withdraw from the demilitarized zone and adhere to the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.
Mr. President,
After the much-needed end to the war in Syria, the Syrian people need time, space and peace to recover, rebuild and reconcile. Unfortunately, none of these things can happen unless all Syrians feel truly safe and protected.
This moment is also an opportunity to enhance cooperation with Lebanon in areas of common concern and for Syria to become a force for stability in a fragile region.
I wish to conclude by once again expressing our readiness to cooperate with Syria, Council members, and the wider international community in support of a genuine, credible, orderly and inclusive political transition, which the Syrian people truly deserve.
I thank you.
13 October 2025 – Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the UNSC meeting on the situation in the Great Lakes region
10 October 2025 – Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the UNSC meeting on the threats to international peace and security
7 October 2025 – Statement by Permanent Representative of Slovenia to the United Nations, Samuel Žbogar, at the UNSC meeting on the cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations in maintaining international peace and security