Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, Permanent Representative of Latvia to the United Nations, at the UN Security Council Briefing on Syria
New York, 12 October 2026
Thank you, Madam President,
I thank Deputy Special Envoy, Claudio Cordone, and ASG Mohamed Yahya for their informative briefings.
I also thank Mr. George Batah and Mr. Hajir Maalim for sharing their insights.
Madam President,
In his speech at the UN General Assembly during the High-Level Week, President Ahmad al-Sharaa emphasized that Syria has transformed from a crisis into an opportunity. We acknowledge and welcome this milestone, which is significant first and foremost for Syria, but also represents an important turning point for the entire region. It is important that the Syrian government, as it continues to advance the country’s political transition, international reintegration, and economic recovery, keeps the aspirations of its people at the core of its endeavours.
In this regard, the work of the People's Assembly is of immense importance. The drafting of the new constitution, strengthening the rule of law and accountable institutions, as well as adopting reforms necessary for economic growth, investment, and reconstruction need to advance. The involvement of Syrian civil society, the meaningful participation of women in political decision‑making, and inclusive representation of all ethnic and religious communities are essential to ensure a more stable, inclusive, and united Syria.
Over the course of nearly two years, Syria has made significant progress, best demonstrated by the growing number of Syrians returning to their communities across the country. As Syria regains its place on the international stage and further benefits from the lifting of sanctions, its economy is gradually recovering. However, many Syrians have yet to feel tangible economic improvements in their daily lives. Therefore, humanitarian aid and funding remain essential to meet the needs of the 15.6 million people who still require assistance. The forthcoming Multi-Sector Needs Assessment for 2027, to be conducted by OCHA and the Syrian government, will be important in ensuring that the “Syria Without Camps” policy can continue on the basis of a comprehensive understanding of remaining needs and vulnerabilities, and that the returns and reintegration of families are supported through adequate access to basic services, a safe environment, housing, and livelihoods. Work must continue to bring the approximately 2 million Syrian children back into the education system. Further investment in education is essential to address the impact of years of war on children and to provide Syria's next generation with the foundation to shape the country's future.
We welcome the increasingly active and broad cooperation developing between Syria and the UN, and encourage Syria to harness the full potential of this cooperation to implement its transition and reconstruction priorities. We also look forward to strengthening the European Union’s partnership with Syria. The recent visit to Damascus by the High Representative and Vice‑President Kaja Kallas, reconfirmed the EU's commitment to further contribute towards Syria's sustainable economic recovery, institutional strengthening, as well as the promotion of reconciliation and transitional justice.
Security and peace within Syria, and along its borders, are essential to foster investment and business activity in the country and the region. Recent attack in Homs reminds that the internal security situation in Syria remains fragile. Also, the fight against terrorism and preventing the resurgence of ISIS are crucial for the country's internal security and require the sustained involvement of the Syrian armed forces.
Amid the ongoing turmoil in the wider Middle East, Syria's transitional government continues to pursue pragmatic engagement with regional countries and its neighbours. We welcome the restraint shown by Syria and its readiness to engage in negotiations aimed at reducing tensions and achieving a mutually acceptable security arrangement with Israel. We call on Israel to engage constructively, abide by the relevant Security Council resolutions, and respect the terms of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement in the Syrian Golan.
Madam President,
After decades of devastation and suffering, the Syrian people's efforts to build a stable, dignified, and prosperous future deserve the continued support of the international community. Latvia is committed to the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of Syria, and to support an inclusive Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition process that addresses the country's security and humanitarian needs, advances its socio-economic recovery and provides a future to Syria’s children and youth.
I thank you.