United Nations, May 21, 2025(Kamran Raja): Pakistan has welcomed the recent announcements by the United States, the European Union and the UK to lift sanctions on Syria and described the removal of these sanctions as a vital opportunity to restore critical infrastructure, attract foreign investment and reintegrate Syria into regional and global economies. Delivering a national statement during the UN Security Council briefing on humanitarian and political situation in Syria, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, said that Syria stands at a pivotal juncture. He said that recent developments, including the National Dialogue Conference, the interim constitution, and interim government are important steps towards stability, adding that we look forward to the formation of a transitional parliament and a representative constitutional committee. Ambassador Usman Jadoon said that national reconciliation and a unified security framework are essential for sustainable peace and long-term stability in Syria. He said that the resurgence of violence in some areas, including in the coastal regions underscore the urgency of addressing historical grievances and fostering genuine reconciliation.
“We have noted the formation of the ‘Transitional Justice Committee’ and express hope that it will be guided by principles of impartiality and transparency, supported by neutral international stakeholders, including the United Nations,” he said. He also highlighted the need for remaining vigilance against terrorism, and the presence of foreign terrorist fighters and groups. While quoting OCHA Director Mr. Rajasingham, the Pakistan Deputy UN Ambassador described the humanitarian situation as grave with over 16 million facing poverty and food insecurity. He highlighted the need for bridging the funding gaps in view of the return of Syrians to their communities. He said that the international community must ensure predictable, sustained and depoliticized humanitarian assistance. Ambassador Jadoon emphasized the respect for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and termed continued Israeli military actions as blatant violation of international law, the UN Charter and the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, threatening regional peace and security. He demanded that these violations must end, including in the Golan Height and Areas of Separation.
The Pakistan Deputy Permanent Representative stated that after over a decade of suffering, the people of Syria deserve peace, stability and the chance to rebuild their lives. “This moment demands collective resolve in support of a Syrian-owned and Syrian-led political process grounded in sovereignty, unity and respect for national institutions,” he stressed. He further stated that stabilization and reconstruction must be supported through safe and voluntary returns, economic revitalization and regional reintegration, in accordance with international law and the principles of the UN Charter. “In this effort, Pakistan stands with the Syrian people in their pursuit of peace, prosperity and dignity,” he said while concluding the statement.