Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the UNSC meeting on the situation in the Middle East, Syria

Thank you Madam President.

I wish to thank Special Envoy Pedersen and USG Fletcher for their briefings. I also welcome the contribution of Ms. Seif.

Madam President,

The aspirations and right of Syrian people to live in peace, freedom and prosperity in Syria, have not changed since peaceful protests fourteen years ago. On the contrary, we can see the resolve to fulfill these aspirations and their pursuit of justice and peace are as strong as ever.

We remain mindful about the sensitive situation in the country and we continue to express hope. The Brussels Conference, where donors pledged nearly $6.5 billion in aid to support Syria, clearly shows the will and readiness of the international community to help the recovery and reconstruction, with the EU and its Member States pledging almost €3.4 billion. Moreover, the EU will consider further lifting of sanctions, depending on the developments on the ground.

This, however, remains a cautious hope. For many wounds from the past remain. There is fear of revenge, impunity, and a return of violence. The continued instability is a clear indicator of the frail transition.

The interim authorities face the important responsibility to protect its population and to ensure that every Syrian lives in safety, with dignity and without fear, their human rights being fully protected and respected. People of Syria regardless of gender, religion, or ethnicity are the ones that should shape the country’s future.

In this regard, we reiterate the importance of a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition, facilitated and assisted by the United Nations and based on principles of the resolution 2254. The UN Special Envoy has our full support in this regard. 

Madam President,

On Syrian future, let me make the following remarks:

First, the future of Syria depends on inclusiveness. It is crucial that Syria’s peaceful political transition is genuinely inclusive. We take note of the recent National Dialogue and urge the interim authorities to build on and beyond it. Concrete actions must follow. Only transition that promotes an open dialogue among all Syrians can restore much needed trust. Women, youth and civil society have a crucial role to play in this regard.   

We hope that the recently issued Constitutional Declaration brings Syria further towards in restoring the rule of law and promoting a genuinely inclusive political transition.

Second, the future of Syria depends on reconciliation and justice delivered. They are the cornerstone of a credible political transition. Laying early ground for a much needed transitional justice is imperative.

Accountability and justice for victims are essential for a stable and peaceful Syria. All individuals responsible for crimes committed, regardless of their affiliation, must be held accountable. We call on the interim authorities to fully cooperate with the United Nations, including the International Commission of Inquiry (CoI) and the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM), in this regard.

The events in the beginning of March when hundreds of people were killed in the Syrian coastal region clearly show the fragility of the moment. We strongly condemn the killings and intimidations of civilians and call on all sides to prevent any possible reoccurrence and to protect civilians.

Third, the future of Syria depends on its unity and respect for its sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. In this regard, the agreement on unification of the SDF – controlled territories in Northeast Syria with the rest of the country is a step in the right direction as it bodes well for an inclusive and representative Syria.

We call on all parties – internal and external – to refrain from any activity that could further inflame tensions, escalate conflict, exacerbate the suffering of affected communities, destabilize Syria, and jeopardize a credible and inclusive political transition. It is imperative that the new Syria does not leave any room for extremism and terrorism.

We stress the obligation to respect Syrian independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and we once again call for the full respect of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.

Fourth, the future of Syria should be resilient. First steps are the protection of civilians, critical civilian infrastructure, and safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid. Urgent challenges like food insecurity, water scarcity, fuel shortages, landmine contamination, displacement and critical shortages in healthcare, require immediate attention.

Once the most immediate needs are met or in parallel, the authorities must work on economic prosperity and opportunity, on rebuilding the health and education system and provide security. International community stands ready to help. This, together with respect of human rights, the rule of law and democracy, will be the best foundations for a successful and resilient Syria.

I thank you.

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