Statement by Permanent Representative of Slovenia to the United Nations Samuel Žbogar at the UNSC meeting on the situation in the Middle East

Thank you Mr. President.

We also thank Deputy Special Envoy Rochdi and Director Doughten for their briefings today. We welcome the Ambassador of Syria, as well as the Ambassadors of Iran, Israel, Morocco and Turkiye to the chamber.

Mr. President,

As Syria continues on its journey to rebuild, following decades of violence and suffering, it is critical that the Security Council and international community accompany it with every step.

Firstly, let me welcome the adoption earlier this month of Resolution 2799. Slovenia believes that this is a constructive practical step, and a clear message that the international community is ready to engage with the authorities towards an inclusive political transition in Syria, and in support of the country’s much needed social and economic recovery, reconstruction and stabilisation.

At the same time, we reiterate Slovenia’s continued commitment to the 1267 sanctions regime, which is an important tool in support of counterterrorism efforts and the fight against Da’esh. We call for its full implementation, and on the Syrian authorities to meet its obligations to prevent any terrorist resurgence, in line with international law, and to bring weapons stockpiles fully under state control – an essential part of a wider effort on security sector reform. We welcome Syria’s recent announcement that it will cooperate with the Global Coalition to Defeat Da’esh, as well as its ongoing engagement with the OPCW.

Mr. President,

My second point today is that, while the Assad regime has fallen, humanitarian needs have not disappeared. The impact of decades of conflict, displacement and extreme weather events on food security are clear to see.  The recent ‘Hunger Hotspots’ report confirms that already severe levels of acute food insecurity in Syria are expected to deteriorate further in the coming months.

Prevention matters. We should heed this early warning and mobilise to collective action, including through increased and diversified support and funding to humanitarian efforts. This is particularly critical as Syrians face into the harsh winter months, and as we strive to move from humanitarian assistance to lasting economic recovery.

Mr. President,

My final point today is a call for dialogue – national dialogue within Syria involving all Syrians, regional dialogue between Syria and its neighbours, and dialogue with the international community and its bodies and mechanisms, including the United Nations. Slovenia commends and further encourages the efforts already undertaken by the Syrian authorities in this regard. And we reiterate our commitment to Syria’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity, which should be respected by all. Israel’s continued violations are unacceptable and must cease.

Mr. President,

We especially recall the critical role played by civil society and particularly women, which has been demonstrated so heroically in Syria over the past decade. My colleague from Denmark has already pointed out that just days ago, the European Union hosted the “Day of Dialogue” in support of Syrian civil society, taking place in Damascus for the first time and providing a platform for Syrians to have their voices heard. 

Slovenia sees the fostering of a safe, vibrant and pluralistic civic space and genuine engagement with civil society as essential to building the necessary trust between all Syrian people and the Syrian authorities, and to achieving true reconciliation. It also reflects the spirit of Resolution 2254 and an inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition, which provides for the protection of all.

To conclude Mr. President,

We reiterate, above all, that we stand by the Syrian people at this moment of great opportunity and great responsibility. We hope that this message will be clearly heard in Damascus and across the country, as we continue our work to facilitate a Security Council visit to Syria. We thank Council members for their constructive engagement thus far.  

Thank you.

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