UN PICTURE RELEASED BY PAK. MISSION
Mumtaz Hussain
UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has welcomed the recent decisions by the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom to lift sanctions on Syria, calling it a crucial step toward rebuilding the war-torn nation.
Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing on the humanitarian and political situation in Syria, Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, said Syria stands at a “pivotal juncture” and emphasized the importance of seizing this opportunity to restore critical infrastructure, attract foreign investment, and reintegrate Syria into the regional and global economy.
Ambassador Jadoon noted that the recent developments, including the National Dialogue Conference, interim constitution, and interim government, are key steps toward stability. He expressed hope for the formation of a transitional parliament and a representative constitutional committee to further strengthen the political process.
He called for national reconciliation and the establishment of a unified security framework, warning that the resurgence of violence in some areas highlights the need to address historical grievances through genuine dialogue.
Welcoming the formation of a Transitional Justice Committee in Syria, the Pakistani envoy stressed that it must be guided by impartiality and supported by neutral international actors, including the United Nations.
Jadoon also underlined the persistent threat of terrorism and the need to counter foreign terrorist fighters and extremist groups still present in the region.
Citing UN humanitarian chief Ramesh Rajasingham, Ambassador Jadoon described the humanitarian situation in Syria as “grave,” with over 16 million people facing poverty and food insecurity. He urged the international community to ensure sustained, predictable, and non-politicized humanitarian aid, especially to support the safe return of displaced Syrians.
The Pakistani diplomat strongly criticized continued Israeli military actions in Syria, including in the Golan Heights and Areas of Separation, calling them violations of international law and the UN Charter. He demanded an immediate end to such actions, which he said threaten regional peace and stability.
Concluding his statement, Ambassador Jadoon reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process rooted in sovereignty and national unity. He emphasized the importance of safe returns, economic recovery, and regional reintegration for Syria’s long-term peace and development.
“After more than a decade of conflict, the Syrian people deserve peace, stability, and the dignity to rebuild their lives,” he said.
