Hope is on the horizon for Syria, according to UN special envoy Geir Pedersen. Speaking in Damascus after intensive meetings, Pedersen expressed optimism for a \"new Syria\" emerging from the nation's recent political upheaval.
In his discussions, Pedersen engaged with leaders from various factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Syrian National Coalition, families of the detained and missing, civil society figures, and women activists. \"It's only been 11 days since HTS and other groups entered Damascus, so it's early days,\" Pedersen noted. \"But there is a lot of hope that we can now see the beginning of a new Syria – one that, in line with Security Council Resolution 2254, adopts a new constitution ensuring a social contract for all Syrians and eventually holds free and fair elections after a transitional period.\"
Pedersen highlighted the recent renewal of a truce in Kurdish-controlled northeast Syria, emphasizing the need for a political solution to secure lasting peace. He also addressed Syria's severe economic challenges, advocating for immediate humanitarian assistance, reconstruction efforts, and the potential easing of sanctions. \"We need to see economic recovery and hopefully start a process to end sanctions,\" he stated.
Echoing these sentiments, HTS leader Ahmad al-Shara, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, called for the lifting of international sanctions on Syria during a BBC interview. Al-Shara asserted that Syria poses no threat to the world and argued that HTS should be de-listed as a terrorist organization, emphasizing that the group \"did not target civilians or civilian areas.\"
He further denied any intention to transform Syria into a version of Afghanistan, highlighting the different traditions and mindsets of the two countries and expressing support for women's education.
As Syria navigates this critical period, the combined efforts of political leaders and international stakeholders could pave the way for a more stable and prosperous future.
Reference(s):
Inclusive political transition and easing of sanctions urged in Syria
cgtn.com
