'The future of Syria is a matter for the Syrians to determine' - UN Secretary-General
Reflecting on the sacrifices made throughout the conflict, Guterres vowed that the UN would honour the memory of those who suffered most.
SHAH ALAM - After 14 harrowing years of war and the end of a dictatorial regime, the people of Syria now face a pivotal moment in shaping their nation's destiny.
United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasised that the course ahead must be determined by Syrians themselves, with international support facilitating an inclusive and peaceful transition.
“After 14 years of brutal war and the fall of the dictatorial regime, today the people of Syria can seize an historic opportunity to build a stable and peaceful future.
“The future of Syria is a matter for the Syrians to determine and my Special Envoy will be working with them towards that end,” he said.
Recognising the challenges ahead, Guterres appealed for restraint during this critical period.
He stressed the importance of maintaining calm, preventing violence and safeguarding the rights of all Syrians, without exception.
“We will need the support of the international community to ensure that any political transition is inclusive and comprehensive and that it meets the legitimate aspirations of the people of Syria, in all their diversity.
“Syria’s sovereignty, unity, independence and territorial integrity must be restored,” he added.
Reflecting on the sacrifices made throughout the conflict, Guterres vowed that the UN would honour the memory of those who suffered most.
“The UN will honour the memory of those who have borne the brunt of this conflict. We remain committed to helping Syrians build a country where reconciliation, justice, freedom and prosperity are shared realities for all,” he said.
On Nov 27, Syrian rebel forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army launched a stunning offensive, capturing major cities, including Aleppo, Hama and Damascus.
This marked the end of over five decades of Assad family rule. HTS leader Abu Muhammad al-Jolani visited Damascus' Umayyad Mosque, declaring that the future is theirs for the taking. The rebels also released political prisoners from the infamous Sednaya prison.
Syria's deposed President Bashar al-Assad, and his family on Sunday arrived in Moscow, where Russia offered them asylum.
"Assad and his family members arrived in Moscow. Being guided by humanitarian considerations, Russia has granted asylum for them," TASS said, citing a Kremlin source.
Meanwhile, statues of Assad and his father were toppled by jubilant citizens.
