Pedersen says political process in Syria needs to be inclusive
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The U.N. Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, announced on Sunday that efforts are underway to engage with various segments of the Syrian population, closely monitoring developments, and anticipating progress toward a political transition.
In a statement to reporters during a visit to Damascus, Pedersen said, “We need to get the political process underway that is inclusive of all Syrians.”
“That process obviously needs to be led by the Syrians themselves,” he noted.
On Saturday, during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of discussions in the Aqaba summit held by the Arab Ministerial Contact Group on Syria, Pedersen reiterated his support for a credible and inclusive political process to establish the next government.
He emphasized that they are actively engaging with different segments of the Syrian people and are committed to preventing any acts of retribution in the country.
Pedersen also highlighted the importance of reestablishing the functionality of state institutions while ensuring their security. He expressed hope for the swift lifting of sanctions on Syria to pave the way for recovery and reconstruction efforts.
“We can hopefully see a quick end to the sanctions so that we can see really a rallying around building of Syria,” Pedersen pointed out.