Listen, first and foremost, of course, the change that we're now seeing after the fall of the Assad regime has just been immense, and of course that change in itself creates great hopes, but we all know there are many challenges still ahead of us. So, we need to get this right from the very beginning.

So, and you know, I've been saying all along that we need to get the political process underway that is inclusive of all Syrians. That process obviously needs to be led by the Syrians themselves, it's a Syrian responsibility with the help and assistance hopefully.

Let me just continue then the second challenge, that of course as I know that the caretaker government is very well aware of, is to get the state institutions up and functioning. You know, obviously, just service delivery, and law and order, and security extremely important.

Then of course we all know that Syria has been through an enormous also humanitarian crisis. So, we need to make sure that Syria receives increased immediate humanitarian assistance to the people in Syria, and to all the refugees who want to return. This is extremely critical.

And then of course it's the whole question about economic recovery. We need to see that this is fixed quickly. We will hopefully see a quick end to sanctions, so that we can see really a rallying around building up Syria again.

And then my last point we need to see of course justice and accountability for crimes. And we need to make sure that that goes through a credible justice system, and that we don't see any revenge.

(overtalk) going to lift the sanctions, and you consider HTS as a terrorist organization?

Mr. Pedersen: You know listen, obviously sanctions, and I've said it all along are not UN sanctions. They are sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union, and maybe a few others.

Do you support lifting them?

Mr. Pedersen:  Listen, yes, I think we need as I said an orderly process and I'm very much looking forward to continuing my discussions with the Syrian caretaker government and the authorities here. And I also want to say one thing, I and my team and the UN family we have been contacted by a wide range of Syrians from all across Syria and from the international community from Syrians abroad, and of course you all know that I’ve just arrived from Aqaba and the good news from Aqaba is that there is a united community behind a willingness to help and support Syria.

And then I will be organizing a bigger event with you and looking forward to talking to you when I’ve had my meetings here all the best, thank you.

Damascus, 15 December 2024