New york: The State of Qatar, representing the Arab Group at the United Nations, highlighted the significance of Syria's security and stability as essential components of Arab and regional security. The statement underscored that maintaining Syria's unity and national institutions is crucial to preventing regional destabilization, combating terrorism, and blocking the resurgence of terrorist groups.
According to Qatar News Agency, Her Excellency the State of Qatar's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, delivered this message during the UN Security Council's monthly briefing on the Middle East situation, focusing on Syria's political and humanitarian landscape. Sheikha Alya emphasized that Syria is facing a critical phase with challenges in security, humanitarian, economic, and developmental areas affecting citizens' living conditions and state institutions. She stressed the need for international support to aid Syria's recovery and reconstruction, which would contribute to Syria's stability and that of the region.
The Arab Group, as articulated by Her Excellency, stressed the importance of consolidating national unity under state institutions, building trust, extending security, and promoting development. The Group advocates for a comprehensive Syrian-led political process with broad participation from all Syrian people components, safeguarding citizens' rights, and strengthening national reconciliation, social peace, and transitional justice.
Sheikha Alya noted the Arab Group's approval of steps taken by the Syrian government towards these goals and its cooperation with the international community and the UN. The Arab Group reiterated its commitment to Syria's national unity, sovereignty, and independence, rejecting any breaches of territorial integrity or sovereignty. The Group expressed concern over acts of violence that undermine Syria's security and stability.
The Arab Group condemned violations by Israeli occupation forces in Syrian territory, citing them as blatant violations of Syrian sovereignty and a threat to regional peace. The statement urged the Security Council to enforce cessation of these violations, respect Syria's sovereignty, and ensure withdrawal from occupied Syrian lands, reiterating that the Syrian Golan remains occupied under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions.
The urgent humanitarian situation in Syria was highlighted, calling for coordinated international response and assistance to strengthen the state's capacity to meet basic needs and facilitate recovery projects. These efforts aim to improve living conditions and enable the voluntary return of refugees.
The statement acknowledged the burden on countries hosting Syrian refugees, emphasizing the need for sustainable support from the international community. The Arab Group called for increased funding for the Humanitarian Response Plan to meet urgent humanitarian goals.
Sheikha Alya pointed out that lifting economic restrictions on Syria is essential for alleviating civilian suffering and facilitating recovery. The Arab Group welcomed steps by international partners to ease these restrictions but called for the complete lifting of sanctions hindering Syria's progress.
The Arab Group supports Syria's efforts in combating terrorism and securing borders, stressing the importance of cooperation to strengthen regional security. It urged continued collaboration with the international community to address terrorist threats.
Her Excellency concluded by affirming the Arab Group's commitment to supporting Syria in overcoming challenges and external interventions, aiming for peace, dignity, and prosperity for the Syrian people.