Statement by Türkiye Security Council Meeting on the Situation in the Middle East (Syria pol/hum)

Aslı Güven 22.11.2025
Thank you Mr. President,

We also thank the Deputy Special Envoy and OCHA Director for their briefings.

It has been nearly one year since Syria embarked upon a historic process of transformation.

During this period, despite complex challenges, the Syrian Government has demonstrated commendable progress.

On the political track, the convening of the National Conference, the adoption of the Constitutional Declaration, the formation of an inclusive government, and the conduct of parliamentary elections in less than a year, all reflect a firm commitment to an inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process.

Experiences from other post-conflict contextsshow that the prolonged absence of elections often deepens divisions.

Syria has avoided such a trajectory.

It is therefore essential that we continue to support the Government’s efforts to build inclusive governance structures that reflect the country’s diversity.

Encouraging all components of Syrian society to unite around the principle of equal citizenship, guaranteed by the Constitution, must remain a priority.

Ensuring transitional justice is also a crucial element in Syria’s reconstruction.

In this context, the initiation of judicial proceedings on 17 November regarding the incidents in the Coastal Region, following the release of the report by the National Fact-Finding Committee, and the transparent conduct of this process will contribute to fostering reconciliation.

Mr. President,

On the international front, we welcome the growing cycle of constructive engagementaround Syria.

Likewise, the Security Council’s recent decision to delist President Sharaa and Minister Hattab indicates the international community’s commitment to work in partnership with the Syrian Government.

In this regard, we wish to express our appreciation to the Council, in particular to the United States delegation for its leadership and we extend our thanks to all Council members whose support made this initiative possible.

We will continue to support such steps aimed at erasing the negative legacy of the former eraon the current Syrian administration and the Syrian people, lifting sanctions in their entirety, paving the way for Syria’s integration into the international community, and achieving stability and development in the country.

Mr. President,

Syria’s accession to the Global Coalition against Daesh further reflects its determination to combat terrorism.

It is now imperative to place the Syrian Government at the core of counter-Daesh efforts.

As a full member of the Coalition, Syria should no longer face restrictions or sanctions in the defense and security fields.

Lifting of remaining sanctions would not only strengthen Syria’s counter-terrorism capacity but also support its economic recovery.

Despite the many positive developments of the past eleven months, the path towards stability remains challenging.

Risks to Syria’s territorial integrity and national unity persist.

Ensuring security and stability in the country requires, first and foremost, an end to Israeli aggression and the integration of the so-called “SDF” into the central authority.

Hardly a day passes without illegal actions into southern Syria, accompanied by unjustified calls for the demilitarization of almost the entire south. Today’s illegitimate visit is a case in point.

Israel must reconsider policies that aim to keep Syria weak and fragmented.

It is essential to bring stability and non-aggression to Syria’s south on the basis of the 1974 Separation of Forces Agreement.

Another source of instability is the intransigent attitude of the so-called “SDF” in refusing to implement the 10th of March Agreement.

There is no justification for resisting integration into the central government, thereby delaying the consolidation of security and stability.

It is essential that the Syrian Government assume full authority across the entire national territory, including camps and detention facilities in the northeast.

Mr. President,

On the humanitarian and economic fronts, urgent action is needed to improve living conditions and accelerate reconstruction.

We find encouraging the IMF’s observation that Syria’s economy is “showing signs of recovery and improving prospects.”

At the same time, the recent World Bank assessment estimates Syria’s reconstruction needs at 216 billion US dollars—an amount no country can shoulder alone.

A more coordinated and equitable international effort is indispensable.


Türkiye will continue to support initiatives aimed at improving living standards and strengthening the institutional capacity necessary for a functioning market economy.

These efforts are closely linked to the broader humanitarian picture, including progress toward the safe, dignified and voluntary return of refugees.

As of early November, approximately 550 thousand Syrians have returned to Syria from Türkiye voluntarily, safely, and in a dignified and orderly manner.

Türkiye continues to work closely with international organizations, particularly the United Nations, to ensure access to basic services for returnees and to support their reintegration.

Mr. President,

Türkiye will remain a committed partner to Syria in its pursuit of stability, unity, recovery and full integration into the international community.

I thank you, Mr President.

Atatürk

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