Kazakhstan Hosted 22nd International Meeting on Syria

The 22^nd International Meeting on Syria took place in Astana on November 11-12, 2024. This session brought together key stakeholders under the Astana format—namely Turkiye, Russia, and Iran—as well as observers from Jordan, Iraq, and Lebanon, and the United Nations represented by Deputy Special Representative Najat Rochdi. The discussions underscored the need for a political solution and focused on ongoing humanitarian and security challenges in Syria.

Background: The Astana Format

Initiated in 2017, the Astana format has been a platform for peace negotiations intended to complement UN-led efforts to resolve the Syrian conflict, which erupted in 2011. The tripartite group of Türkiye, Russia, and Iran has aimed to address the complexities of Syria’s civil war, facilitate peace talks, and provide a coordinated response to the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of Syrians.

Day 1 Highlights: Emphasis on Political Resolution

Reiteration for Dialogue: The opening day of the meeting reiterated the participants’ shared stance that the Syrian conflict needs a political resolution. Turkiye, represented by Deputy Foreign Minister Ahmet Yildiz, called for progress on the Syrian Constitutional Committee, stressing the importance of resuming its work to develop a modern and fair constitution that embodies human rights and prevents future conflict .

Humanitarian Aid Discussions: The participants emphasized the necessity of uninterrupted and non-discriminatory humanitarian aid. They called on all sides, including the Assad regime, to avoid imposing restrictive conditions on the delivery of aid to affected areas.

Regional Stability: The delegates expressed concerns about the possible regional spillover effects due to ongoing conflicts, including the Israeli-Palestinian clashes. They urged that these tensions not spread to Syria or Lebanon .

Day 2 Highlights: Addressing Terrorism and Reconstruction

Condemnation of Terrorism: A key part of the second day’s discussions focused on combating terrorism. The guarantor nations condemned terrorist actions, including those by groups such as PKK/YPG, and stressed the importance of preserving Syria’s sovereignty.
Economic and Infrastructure Recovery: The meeting also covered plans for reconstruction and infrastructure rehabilitation. This included discussions about supporting the voluntary and safe return of refugees and displaced persons, ensuring they have access to basic services and stability.

Resolutions and Outcomes

At the conclusion of the two-day meeting, the participants issued a joint statement emphasizing their commitment to:

Supporting the work of the Syrian Constitutional Committee and urging it to reconvene promptly.
Condemning all forms of terrorist activity that undermine Syrian sovereignty and threaten regional security.
Promoting measures to facilitate the return of refugees and reconstruction efforts, vital for Syria’s recovery.
Criticizing external interference that fuels separatism and economic exploitation, particularly in areas controlled by armed groups.

Reflections on Regional Impact

The Astana meeting underscored that despite shifting global focus due to crises like those in Ukraine and Palestine, Syria’s complex situation continues to require active international attention. All participating parties reaffirmed their dedication to a peaceful solution that would restore Syria’s unity and stability .

The 22^nd Astana meeting reiterated a unified call for diplomatic measures to end the Syrian conflict and support its long-term recovery. With a commitment to upholding Syria’s territorial integrity and addressing humanitarian needs, the conference highlighted both immediate and future steps crucial for the region’s peace.