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Stability in Syria: A Cornerstone for Security in the Middle East
The Arab group at the United Nations Security Council reaffirmed its commitment to respecting Syria's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity in the context of its efforts to combat foreign interventions and terrorism. The group stated that Syria's stability is considered "a fundamental pillar for the security of the Middle East, and its security is an integral part of Arab national security."
This came during speeches delivered at a UN Security Council session on Syria, where Kuwait's representative to the UN, Tarek Al-Banay, addressed the positions of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, while Egypt’s ambassador to the UN, Osama Abdel Khalek, spoke on behalf of the Arab group.
Al-Banay noted that the GCC countries participated in the Security Council session solely to reiterate their commitment to assisting Syria politically, economically, and humanitarianly. He highlighted the fundamental principles to which the countries are committed regarding the Syrian crisis, including respect for Syria's sovereignty and independence, rejection of foreign interventions, and combating terrorism.
He explained that the council members call for supporting a comprehensive political transition and national reconciliation, as well as efforts to rebuild the state and strengthen national unity through an inclusive dialogue involving all components of the Syrian people.
Al-Banay emphasized that Syria's stability is a prerequisite for the security of the Middle East, and called for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the occupied Syrian territories, stressing the necessity of lifting economic sanctions on Syria and providing humanitarian support to its people.
For his part, the Egyptian ambassador pointed to the full Arab support for the Syrian people, emphasizing the importance of the current transitional phase. He also mentioned that Arab states have made significant efforts to achieve political reform in Syria and to utilize appropriate frameworks to encourage the former regime to respond to change demands.
Abdel Khalek condemned the continued occupation of the Syrian Golan by Israel, calling on the Security Council to intervene to maintain peace and security and to stop Israeli aggression. He also stressed the Arab group's support for efforts to rebuild Syria through a comprehensive political process and a purely Syrian national leadership.
In conclusion, Abdel Khalek affirmed that the Arab group will continue its support for Syria, praising the importance of enhancing efforts to combat terrorism and extremism, with a focus on prioritizing the interests of the Syrian people to ensure the country’s stability and protection.
