Mr. Geir O. Pedersen has informed the Secretary-General of his intention to step down for personal reasons after more than six and a half years of service as the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, and the Secretary-General has accepted his request.

 Mr. Pedersen is deeply indebted to, and profoundly grateful to, the Syrian people, who have shown extraordinary courage and humanity throughout these years.

Given the extraordinary changes in Syria and the opening of a new chapter, it has also been both his duty and a privilege to remain in office, and to help guide the United Nations’ political efforts in the first crucial months of this period of political transition.

The Special Envoy will be departing in the near future, but will remain fully engaged in his responsibilities until his final day in office.

Mr. Pedersen extends his deepest gratitude to the Secretary-General for his trust and unwavering support, to his exceptional team for their tireless dedication, and to the Security Council for its sustained backing throughout this journey.

Few have endured suffering as profound as the Syrians. And few have demonstrated such resilience and determination.

Today, Syria and the Syrian people have a new dawn, and we must ensure that this becomes a bright day. They deserve this so much.