UN: 17 June 2025(Kamran Raja):
1. We thank Deputy Special Envoy Ms. Najat Rochdi and Assistant Secretary-General Joyce Msuya for their comprehensive briefings.
Madam President,
2. Pakistan values its historic ties with the brotherly people of Syria, who have endured immense hardship due to internal divisions and external interventions. From the shadows of protracted conflict and war, glimmers of hope and stability are beginning to emerge in Syria. We truly hope that the progress we are witnessing culminates into a Syrian-owned and Syrian-led transition, based on the principles of the Security Council resolution 2254.
3. Earlier this month, a Pakistan delegation led by the Additional Foreign Secretary visited Damascus and called on Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani. The two sides discussed areas of bilateral cooperation with a view to enhancing engagement in various fields of mutual interest. The meeting underscored the longstanding and friendly relations between Pakistan and Syria.
4. During the visit, Pakistan reaffirmed its continued support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Syria, and conveyed its readiness to deepen cooperation at bilateral and multilateral forums. Both sides agreed to increase the frequency of bilateral exchanges to explore possibilities of further strengthening the relations.
5. Pakistan also acknowledges the constructive role played by regional countries and global partners in Syria’s stability, including Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Qatar, the EU, the U.S. and other key partners. We appreciate the continued efforts of the Special Envoy in facilitating dialogue.
6. Allow me to highlight the following points:
First, we welcome the positive developments in Syria’s transitional political process. Syria is taking meaningful steps toward inclusive governance. The recent establishment of the Supreme Committee for Elections to the People’s Assembly is a constructive development. As the Special Envoy stated, this could be an important step in line with the Constitutional Declaration. We look forward to the eventual formation of a transitional parliament and the constitutional committee, which will further guide the broader political process.
Second, the humanitarian situation in Syria remains deeply concerning. Over 16 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, and more than 14 million face food insecurity. It is imperative that humanitarian assistance remains sustained and predictable in order to lay the foundation for recovery and resilience.
Third, the easing of economic restrictions presents a critical opening for recovery. The issuance of the U.S. General License 25 and waiver under the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act mark significant steps in facilitating humanitarian operations and enabling reconstruction. Similarly, the lifting of sanctions by the EU and the U.K. are timely measures that can help unlock wider economic engagement. These developments offer a much-needed opportunity for Syria to advance along a path of self-reliance and stability.
Fourth, We must remain vigilant against terrorism. The presence of foreign fighters and groups known to have terrorist affiliation, including ISIL continue to pose a threat to Syria’s security.
Fifth, we remain cognizant of the significant political and security developments unfolding across the region. The destabilizing spillover effects due to Israeli aggression in the region risk undermining Syria’s fragile gains. It is critical that diplomatic focus and international support for Syria remain undiminished.
Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be upheld without exception. Ongoing Israeli military actions violate international law and Council resolutions 350 and 497. Such acts threaten regional peace and erode the authority of the Syrian state. Pakistan condemns these violations and reaffirms the importance of full compliance with the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.
Madam President,
7. Syria stands at a delicate but hopeful juncture. Our collective responsibility is to support this momentum—by sustaining humanitarian aid, promoting inclusive governance, and upholding Syria’s sovereignty. Pakistan will continue to stand firmly with the brotherly people of Syria.
I thank you.