Washington, Paris, Moscow back Syria’s recovery, stress sovereignty
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – U.S. Deputy Representative to the UN Tammy Bruce called Syria’s removal from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list a “historic milestone,” saying it could unlock trade and investment opportunities.
Speaking at a UN Security Council session on Syria on Thursday, Bruce said Washington’s decision to rescind Syria’s designation on Aug. 24 recognizes continued progress by Syrian authorities on political, humanitarian and security priorities. (usun.usmission.gov)
She said lifting U.S. restrictions on Syria could help unlock international trade and investment opportunities and contribute to the country’s reconstruction.
Bruce also called on Israel and Syria to pursue de-escalation following Israeli airstrikes on the Abu al-Duhur military airbase in northwestern Syria earlier this month, saying the United States would continue engaging with both countries and regional stakeholders to promote dialogue and peaceful solutions. (aa.com.tr)
French Ambassador to the UN Jérôme Bonnafont described the U.S. decision as a “good step,” reaffirming France’s support for Syria’s reconstruction and its regional integration. He also called on Israel to halt its incursions into Syrian territory and respect the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. (press.un.org)
Russia also welcomed the progress made by the Syrian authorities, while Moscow, Beijing, Islamabad and other countries stressed the importance of supporting Syria’s recovery and preserving its sovereignty and territorial integrity. (syrianow.net)
The Security Council session came days after Washington formally removed Syria from its State Sponsors of Terrorism list, a decision that Damascus and several countries described as an important step toward economic recovery and reconstruction. (syrianewstoday.com)