UN identifies key priorities for Syria amid ongoing crisis

Geir Pedersen, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, has underscored the urgent need for a political transition and enhanced security measures as the central priorities for the country’s recovery.

Addressing the Munich Security Conference, Pedersen outlined Syria’s multifaceted challenges and stressed that addressing these issues is essential for the country’s future stability and rehabilitation, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

Pedersen emphasized that political transition must be the foremost priority for Syria, warning that without progress in this area, broader peace efforts would remain impeded. He also discussed the ongoing security challenges in Syria, highlighting the persistent threats posed by the Islamic State, ongoing conflicts with various armed groups, and the complex situation involving the Kurdish issue in the northeast. Additionally, Pedersen noted the destabilizing effects of Israel’s occupation of parts of Syrian territory.

The UN envoy further emphasized that Syria’s security concerns are closely tied to its dire economic situation, which requires immediate and significant intervention. He pointed out that Syria's transformation cannot succeed without the restoration of its economy and that economic recovery will be impossible without the lifting of international sanctions. Pedersen stressed the importance of lifting sanctions to facilitate the country’s recovery, reiterating the need for urgent attention to this matter.

Addressing the humanitarian crisis, Pedersen revealed that nearly 17 million Syrians are in desperate need of assistance. He also highlighted the necessity of ensuring a sustainable future for refugees returning to Syria and internally displaced persons.

While awaiting a broader resolution to the sanctions issue, Pedersen called for greater economic and humanitarian support to address the immediate challenges facing the country. He concluded by emphasizing that time is of the essence, urging the international community to act swiftly to alleviate the suffering in Syria.

By Vafa Guliyeva