In a significant development following the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, foreign ministers from eight Arab countries convened in Jordan to deliberate on Syria’s future. The meeting, held in Aqaba, underscored the need for an inclusive and peaceful political transition, emphasizing the importance of preserving Syria’s unity and preventing further chaos. The ministers presented a unified stance, calling for international cooperation in rebuilding the war-torn nation.
Support for a UN-Backed Political Process
The Arab foreign ministers from Jordan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Lebanon, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar stressed that Syria’s political transition must align with the principles of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254. This resolution, adopted in 2015, provides a roadmap for a negotiated settlement, calling for a ceasefire and a Syrian-led political solution.
The ministers highlighted the need for a new government that reflects the aspirations of all Syrians. They proposed a transitional authority supported by Syrians themselves, ensuring the representation of diverse political and social groups. To achieve this, free and fair elections supervised by the United Nations were identified as a cornerstone of Syria’s future political framework.
Inclusiveness and Justice as Key Pillars
Addressing the ethnic, sectarian, and religious tensions that have plagued Syria, the ministers emphasized the necessity of inclusiveness in the transitional process. They called for justice, equality, and the protection of minority rights, warning against any form of discrimination. Ensuring a representative government was described as crucial to fostering national unity and stability.
Labib al-Nahhas, director of the Syrian Association for Citizens’ Dignity, reiterated the importance of inclusiveness in avoiding a repeat of past governance failures. “The key to success in such a critical phase is inclusiveness, and not handing the country back to a single party or a single person,” he noted.
Preserving State Institutions and Combating Terrorism
The joint statement also emphasized the preservation of Syria’s state institutions as vital to preventing chaos and ensuring a stable transition. The ministers expressed concerns over the risk of Syria fragmenting into separate entities, stressing the importance of rebuilding institutions capable of serving all citizens effectively.
Additionally, the meeting highlighted the persistent threat of terrorism in Syria and the region. The Arab leaders called for enhanced efforts to combat extremist groups, underlining the global implications of terrorism originating from Syria.
Condemnation of Israeli Actions
In a strong rebuke, the ministers condemned Israel’s incursions into the buffer zone with Syria and its continued airstrikes within Syrian territory. They demanded the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Syrian land, labeling such actions a violation of Syria’s sovereignty.
International Cooperation and Future Prospects
The Aqaba talks were not limited to Arab countries. They included participation from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The collective stance underscored the importance of global collaboration in ensuring a stable and inclusive Syria.
Speaking at the meeting, Blinken remarked, “Today’s agreement sends a unified message to the new interim authority and parties in Syria on the principles crucial to securing much-needed support and recognition.”
As Syria stands at a crossroads, Arab and international actors have emphasized the importance of unity, inclusiveness, and justice in shaping its future. Their commitments offer a glimmer of hope for a nation long mired in conflict, but much will depend on the successful implementation of these ambitious goals.
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