Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, PR of Latvia to the United Nations at the UN Security Council Briefing on Syria
New York, 13 February 2026
Thank you, Mr. President,
I would like to warmly welcome Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Mr. Claudio Cordone, at his first briefing to the Security Council. I wish you every success in strengthening cooperation between the UN and Syria and in advancing the priorities you outlined today. We are convinced that the UN’s expertise, together with an enhanced presence on the ground, will contribute positively to Syria’s future.
Let me thank OCHA Director Lisa Doughten for her detailed briefing and Ms Muzna Dureid for her valuable contribution to this discussion.
Mr. President,
Latvia welcomes the permanent ceasefire and comprehensive integration agreement announced by the Syrian transitional government and Syrian Democratic Forces. Following earlier outbreaks of armed confrontation between both parties, this agreement provides an opening for peace and stability in the northeast Syria. We call for an accountable implementation of the agreement, recognising its symbolic overall significance for promoting intra-communal trust and inclusive governance prospects across Syria. Agreed arrangements for civil and military integration is a step towards a sustainable approach to such governance.
We acknowledge the fundamental role the Syrian transitional government has assumed alongside joint international endeavour in countering ISIS. We welcome the step taken by Syria to join the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS and the important contribution of Iraq to the regional security. We also recognise the sacrifices made by the SDF in the fight against terrorism.
Previous escalations in the northeast Syria have highlighted that even in times of heightened tension, the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law must remain paramount. Safe, sustained, and unimpeded humanitarian access is necessary, so that communities can continue to receive essential support, including food, clean water, electricity, and medical assistance across Syria. In this context, particular attention must be given to the needs of those most vulnerable, including women and girls, who are often disproportionately affected.
Mr. President,
Ahead of today’s meeting, Latvia joined other signatories of the Statement of Shared Commitments on Women, Peace and Security, recognising that over the past decades Syrian women and girls have borne a heavy burden of the dire security and living conditions. Their strength and resilience are the cornerstone in building the new Syria. Countless Syrian families lost their members during the war waged by the Assad regime against its own people. Gravely affected by the economic crisis, Syrian women are often the sole providers for their families, and their daily experience mirrors the social and economic challenges that need to be addressed. The full, equal and meaningful women’s inclusion in the political process, as set by Resolution 1325, would benefit the whole country.
An inclusive political transition, with at least 30 percent women’s participation and a substantial ethnical and religious representation, is a pathway for a reconciliation of the Syrian society and lasting peace. That reconciliation has to be built on the principles of human rights and dignity, ensuring safety and protection, including by adopting comprehensive laws that address sexual and gender-based violence.
We welcome the resolve of Syria’s transitional government to put justice and accountability at the core of their endeavours. We look forward to a comprehensive and transparent work to be delivered by the established national bodies, also enabling victim’s genuine participation in the process. And we support the work of accountability mechanisms for Syria and full implementation of their mandates.
Mr. President,
In conclusion, let me emphasize that one year into Syria’s transitional process, more work lies ahead to mend the social fabric torn by conflict and a brutal regime. Sustained international solidarity, focused on recovery and rebuilding is essential to support Syria’s path towards stability, dignity, and lasting peace. Latvia remains a committed partner on this path.
I thank you.