UN Security Council delegation makes historic visit to Syria

DAMASCUS, Syria For the first time since its establishment in 1945, the United Nations Security Council sent a delegation to Syria on Thursday. This visit coincides with the approach of the one-year mark since the dramatic overthrow of former President Bashar Assad by rebel forces. It highlights Syrias gradual return to international engagement under its new administration led by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, a former insurgent leader.

In a brief statement to reporters in Damascus, Samuel bogar, Slovenias permanent representative to the U.N. and current Security Council president, emphasized that the delegation aimed to build trust and expressed optimism that progress had been made during the visit.

The Security Council representatives held discussions with President al-Sharaa, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, and other government officials. They also met with local U.N. staff, civil society representatives, religious leaders, and communities affected by sectarian violence earlier this year in coastal areas and southern Syrias Sweida province. Additionally, meetings were held with regional governors and members of commissions investigating sectarian conflicts and missing persons.

bogar noted that conversations focused on justice, reconciliation, inclusivity, and national dialogue amid Syrias ongoing political transition. Other topics included economic development, counter-terrorism, and ensuring that Syria does not pose a security threat to neighboring countries. The delegation reaffirmed the international communitys support for Syrias sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity.

According to Syrias state news agency SANA, the delegation also toured the heavily damaged Damascus suburb of Jobar as well as historic sites in old Damascus. The report highlighted that Security Council visits are uncommon due to the need for unanimous agreement among all 15 member states.

Author: Gavin Porter