I will make four points today.
First, this month’s indirect parliamentary elections across Syria marked an important milestone. We welcome efforts by the Syrian government to maintain momentum in Syria’s political transition.
Ahead of the People’s Assembly next month, we encourage the Government to ensure the remaining direct appointments reflect the broadest possible representation within the legislature, and to set out clear timelines for postponed elections in Raqqa, Hassakeh and Suwayda.
Political pluralism is essential to establishing a more stable, peaceful Syria.
Second, we were deeply concerned by the recent escalation of violence in the Kurdish-majority neighbourhoods in Aleppo. Military confrontation is in no one’s interest.
We welcome the ceasefire agreement reached between the Syrian Democratic Forces and Syrian government and encourage both sides to continue negotiations to urgently reach a sustainable political settlement.
We call on all parties in north-east Syria to allow unimpeded humanitarian access.
Third, as we mark World Food Day this month, we emphasise the need to restore sustainable food systems in Syria. All Syrians deserve access to safe, nutritious and sufficient food.
To this end, the UK continues to support food security, livelihoods and agriculture across Syria and through the Food and Agriculture Organisation and other UN partners. This is just one way in which the UN is helping to build a more resilient Syria.
We look forward to discussing with UN partners, and as a Council, the Secretary-General’s recommendations on how the UN can support Syria’s transition more broadly.
And finally, I want to end by reaffirming the UK’s commitment to supporting Syria at this pivotal moment in its political transition.
In line with this commitment, the United Kingdom took the decision this week to remove Hayat Tahrir al-Sham from our domestic list of proscribed organisations.
This decision will enhance our ability to work with and support the Syrian Government. We should collectively consider what further steps the international community can take to support Syria and move towards a more stable, unified, peaceful future.