Damascus appoints new permanent representative to UN

By Saad al-Yaziji

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Syrian President Ahmad al-Shar’a on Tuesday issued Decree No. 142 of 2025, appointing Ibrahim Abdulmalik al-Olabi as Syria’s new Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York.

Al-Olabi, who was born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, holds both British and German citizenships. He is regarded as one of the prominent young lawyers in the field of human rights. Still in his thirties, he has developed advanced expertise in international law, with a particular focus on human rights issues. He is fluent in both Arabic and English and is proficient in German.

The appointment marks the first major diplomatic reshuffle under the new Syrian administration led by President al-Shar’a, who took office earlier this year. Al-Olabi had already appeared in an official capacity when he accompanied Foreign Minister As’ad al-Shibani during President al-Shar’a’s meeting with Fernando González, Director-General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

His nomination comes at a time when Syria’s representation in international organizations remains central to discussions on the country’s political future, humanitarian access, and compliance with international agreements.

The new envoy is expected to formally assume his duties at the UN headquarters in New York in the coming weeks following the completion of diplomatic accreditation procedures.