The United Nations has stepped up its engagement with Syria’s political transition by announcing an upcoming visit by Secretary-General António Guterres to Damascus, while senior UN officials told the Security Council that the country has genuine opportunities to achieve stability and recovery despite ongoing security and economic challenges.
Guterres to Visit Damascus in Support of Syria’s Transition
UN Secretary-General António Guterres will travel to Syria later this week at the invitation of the Syrian government, where he is scheduled to meet President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani and other senior officials.
According to the United Nations, the visit aims to reaffirm the organization’s commitment to supporting both the Syrian government and the Syrian people during this critical phase, while emphasizing respect for Syria’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.
Guterres is also expected to meet representatives of Syrian civil society and women’s organizations, in addition to visiting the headquarters of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights.
Security Council Briefing Highlights Opportunities for Recovery
During a Security Council briefing, UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Claudio Cordone said Syria has real opportunities to achieve long-term stability if inclusive, accountable and trusted institutions are established.
He described the formation of the Supreme Constitutional Court and the People’s Assembly as important milestones in the political transition, stressing that broad participation, institutional reform and transitional justice will be essential for lasting peace.
UN Welcomes Economic Progress While Expressing Security Concerns
Cordone welcomed measures taken by the Syrian government to support economic recovery, including recent cooperation agreements with France and discussions with Lebanon and Iraq.
He also praised the United States’ decision to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, describing it as a sign of growing international confidence.
At the same time, he voiced concern over continued Israeli military activities in southern Syria, calling for full respect for the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, international law and Syria’s sovereignty.
UN Reaffirms Long-Term Commitment to Syria
The announcement of Guterres’ visit and the Security Council briefing reflect the United Nations’ broader commitment to supporting Syria’s political transition through institutional development, economic recovery, transitional justice and inclusive governance.
The UN also indicated its readiness to relocate its Syria office from Geneva to Damascus once conditions allow.
Conclusion:
The United Nations has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Syria during its political transition through high-level diplomatic engagement and continued Security Council oversight, emphasizing that lasting stability will depend on effective institutions, economic recovery, inclusive governance and respect for Syria’s sovereignty.
