Mr. President,
I welcome the presence among us of the Representative of Syria, the Representative of Turkey and the Representative of Libya.
I wish to thank the Deputy Special Envoy, Mr. Claudio Cordone, as well as the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Tom Fletcher, for their briefings, which deliver a clear message: the situation is improving, yet our support remains indispensable given the magnitude of the challenges.
A number of positive developments have taken place since our last debate, demonstrating that the transition strategy initiated by the Syrian authorities is generating results.
France applauds the opening of trials against figures of the former regime. Transitional justice and the fight against impunity for all crimes perpetrated on Syrian soil, whether past or recent, are the conditions for lasting peace, given the profound wounds endured by the Syrian people.
Turning to the economic front, following the lifting of sanctions—for which we took our share of responsibility—France welcomes the restoration of the cooperation agreement between the European Union and Syria, aimed at the country’s full reintegration into the international economic system. The European Union-Syria dialogue saw the announcement of a three-year funding package of 620 million euros to support Syria’s recovery.
At the same time, the unveiling of the World Bank’s reengagement program in Syria is a milestone in the transition from a humanitarian assistance model to a sustainable economic development model, attractive for private investment.
The continued dismantling of the chemical weapons program, inherited from the former regime, is an encouraging sign, as is the dismantling of the drug production and distribution program.
Finally, the return of nearly 2 million refugees is further proof that the new Syria offers prospects for the future and hope to its citizens.
Nevertheless, the Security Council and the international community must remain vigilant to ensure that Syria can pursue the path towards reconciliation and recovery upon which it has embarked.
In the spirit of the agreement of January 29 between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the government in Damascus – the full implementation of which France commends – we call for the consolidation of Syria’s unity across its entire territory, with respect for the civil and cultural rights of all segments of society and the safe return of displaced persons.
More broadly, we support all efforts to build a democratic and pluralistic political system, as well as the decision taken in order to heal the wounds of the past and foster reconciliation between communities. We support the full representation and participation of women in public life.
We will unstintingly pursue the fight against Daesh terrorism through enhanced cooperation with the International Coalition.
Enhancement of Syrian border security remains a priority in order to combat trafficking, to contribute to strengthening the sovereignty of states in the region, and to strengthen the new partnership between Lebanon and Syria, which we welcome and encourage.
France also calls upon Israel to cease its incursions on Syrian territory, which risk undermining Syria’s stabilization.
Finally, we invite the Syrian authorities to identify areas of cooperation that could form the basis of a renewed partnership with the United Nations. A presence of the Special Envoy’s office in Damascus, in close proximity to the ground and responsive to needs, is timely.
Mr. President,
Despite regional instability and military escalation along its borders, Syria is continuing to advance its political transition. This is grounds for hope for the entire region. Let us encourage Syria on this path towards a future of peace, stability, and prosperity.
Thank you.