UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has called on the international community to maintain consistent support for Syria’s stability, reform process, and inclusive state-building, acknowledging that a political settlement remains central to achieving lasting peace in the war-torn country.
Delivering Pakistan’s national statement during the UN Security Council briefing on Syria, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Aamir Iftikhar Ahmad, stressed that the political process must remain fully inclusive and led and owned by the Syrian people. He said only such an approach could ensure outcomes that are durable, credible, and genuinely reflective of the aspirations of all Syrians.
He noted that the Security Council’s recently adopted Resolution 2799 marked a significant step toward opening political space, encouraging constructive engagement, promoting harmony, and creating a more conducive environment for dialogue.
“We hope these developments translate into real improvements for the Syrian people and help rebuild trust and confidence in the political sphere,” he added.
The ambassador termed the lifting of sanctions and the opening of avenues for recovery and reconstruction an encouraging sign. He urged international institutions to work closely with Syrian authorities to strengthen central banking capacity and support the preparation of the national budget.
Calling the persistent threat of terrorism deeply alarming, Ambassador Ahmad warned that the re-emergence of Daesh in remote areas and remaining security gaps poses a serious challenge to peace and stability. He underscored the need for sustained vigilance, better coordination, and effective DDR measures to prevent any return to large-scale violence.
He also condemned Israeli incursions and the establishment of so-called permanent outposts in southern Syria, saying these actions violate the 1974 Disengagement Agreement and are destabilizing at a time when Syria is trying to rebuild after years of destruction. He stressed that any future security arrangements must align with the UN framework and carry the consent of all relevant parties.
Reaffirming that Syria’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity remain essential for lasting peace, the ambassador highlighted the importance of renewed commitments to the March 2025 agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). He said building a unified political and security architecture that genuinely represents all Syrians is fundamental in this context.
He also stressed the need for immediate stabilization in the deteriorating situation in As-Suwayda province and expressed Pakistan’s full support for the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.
Concluding his statement, he said, “We encourage all parties to move forward in good faith, make use of the current opportunity, and ensure that the dividends of peace reach every segment of Syrian society.”
