LOC23:19
20:19 GMT
NEW YORK, May 21 (KUNA) -- United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen welcomed on Wednesday the international steps towards lifting sanctions on Syria.
He stressed that these developments hold major potential to improve living conditions across the country, and to support Syrian political transition.
In a video conference to the National Security Council, Pedersen said that "there is an atmosphere ripe with cautious optimism and a yearning for renewal, following far-reaching international moves on Syria."
He also pointed out that "Syria faces significant structural challenges, with an economy ravaged by over a decade of war and conflict, and a host of destabilizing factors."
Pedersen added that "revitalizing a devastated economy will require from the interim authorities sustainable measures that include comprehensive economic reform and governance standards in the financial system."
In turn, he welcomed the support provided by regional countries, most notably Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Qatar in resolving Syria's outstanding obligations to international financial institutions, supporting the payment of public sector salaries, and providing vital energy resources.
Pedersen touched upon the decision of the interim authorities to establish the National Commission for Transitional Justice, and the National Commission for Missing Persons, which he considered a crucial step towards justice for Syrians.
Pedersen expressed his pleasure at the holding of the first meeting of the Women's Advisory Council in Damascus since its inception in 2016, noting that the council members stressed their political participation and were keen to provide wise advice to interim authorities.
Regarding the next stage, he confirmed that a crucial next step will be to establish a High Committee responsible for selecting the members of the new People's Assembly.
He also expressed his concern about renewed Israeli occupation airstrikes on Syria, emphasizing that "such attacks are unacceptable and must cease. Syria's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity must be respected."
Pedersen concluded by emphasizing that the challenges facing the country are numerous, pointing out that the Syrian people felt relieved because of the lift on sanctions, as it provides them a better chance than before to success against great odds. (end)
ast.sas