The United Kingdom welcomes the progress Syria has made in recent months.
President Sharaa’s participation during the UN General Assembly High-Level Week was an important demonstration of Syria’s continued engagement with international partners, as it works towards a more stable and prosperous future.
President, I will make three points.
Economic recovery is essential to Syria’s future.
Many Syrians continue to face significant economic hardship, including rising living costs and pressure on household incomes.
Political progress must increasingly be accompanied by tangible improvements in people’s lives.
We therefore welcome the Syrian government’s efforts to attract investment, strengthen regional economic ties and support reconstruction and livelihoods.
The international community should continue to support measures that restore economic opportunity, improve basic services and create the conditions for sustainable recovery, including for displaced Syrians to return home.
For our part, the United Kingdom is committed to supporting Syria’s recovery.
We have allocated $90 million this financial year, including support for education, entrepreneurship, agriculture and livelihoods.
This will help create jobs, address continuing humanitarian needs and build confidence in Syria’s future.
Second, recent reports of sectarian tensions and violence underline the importance of ensuring that Syria’s political progress remains inclusive.
Lasting stability depends on all Syrians having confidence that their rights and security will be protected and that they have a stake in their country’s future.
The United Kingdom continues to emphasise the importance of inclusive governance, meaningful participation by all communities, and credible transitional justice processes.
Accountability and equal protection are essential to building trust and preventing renewed instability.
Third, respect for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remains essential for long-term stability, political progress and economic recovery.
In that regard, I reaffirm the United Kingdom’s longstanding position that we consider the Golan Heights to be occupied Syrian territory.
President, the progress achieved so far is real, but it is not yet secure. The task now is to translate political progress into economic opportunity, inclusive governance and lasting stability for all Syrians.
The United Kingdom will continue to support that effort.
