United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, at a press conference held in the capital Damascus at the end of his visit to Syria, made a global call for the lifting of sanctions on the country.
Guterres,
"All sanctions must be lifted immediately. The Syrian people should not bear the burden of recovery alone."
Noting that he also visited Sednaya Prison during his trip, the Secretary-General said,
"I was deeply horrified by the allegations that tens of thousands of people were killed and tortured."
Emphasizing his hope for Syria's future, Guterres said the country must achieve security, stability, and economic opportunities. He also noted that assistance is needed for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced persons.
The UN Secretary-General said he was impressed by his meeting with Syrian People's Assembly Speaker Abdulhamit Avvak, and that he received information about the assembly's legislative and internal regulation work.
Guterres stated that the UN is ready to support accountability, transitional justice, human rights, and reconciliation efforts in Syria. He said that the rule of law, a permanent constitution, and free elections require the participation of all segments of society.
Strongly condemning Israel's violations of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, Guterres said,
"These violations are unacceptable and must end."
Answering questions at the press conference, the Secretary-General, stating that he is beyond optimistic about the future of cooperation, said,
"I have no doubt that with the support of the international community, the Syrian people can rebuild the country."
Maria Nica / Editor
