Security Council : A3+ Group Calls on Syrians to Reach Political Solution to Conflict
NEW YORK – The A3+ Group of the Security Council (Algeria, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, and Guyana) affirmed that the solution to the Syrian crisis could only be a “political solution preserving the unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Syria.”
“Clearly, there is no military solution to the Syrian crisis. The only possible path is a political solution preserving the unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Syria,” said Nassim Gaouaoui, Algeria’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, speaking on behalf of the A3+ group.
“We reaffirm our conviction that an inclusive dialogue among all Syrians, with the support of the international community, remains the only viable and just solution to resolve this crisis that has dragged on for far too long,” said Gaouaoui during an emergency UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East. A meeting requested by the Syrian government with the support of the A3+ group.
“Syrians must set aside their differences and present a united front to create a bright future. A future where the country will be free from terrorism and where all Syrians can realize their legitimate aspirations for peace, dignity, and hope.”
The diplomat pointed out the A3+ group’s concern about the recent escalation of violence in Syria, “including attacks by the Hayaat Tahrir al-Cham group, which has been designated as a terrorist group by the Security Council’.”
“These attacks have caused tragic loss of human life, including women and children, in addition to damage to civilian infrastructure and the suspension of essential services,” he lamented.
“The A3+ group has continuously sounded the alarm (about the situation in Syria). Unfortunately, these warnings have now proven their relevance,” he stated.
This tragic escalation of violence reminds us of the fragility and gravity of the situation in Syria, nearly 14 years after the crisis began. It also underscores the urgent need to improve coordination to effectively combat terrorism,” he added.
“We once again call to back the efforts of the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy to Syria. We also emphasize the importance of reconvening the Syrian Constitutional Committee meetings and giving fresh impetus to the political process by and for Syrians, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254,” said Gaouaoui, calling for a political resolution to the Syrian conflict.
