STORY
The United Kingdom today underlined its continuing commitment to help the Syrian people rebuild their country and economy, as Ambassador James Kariuki, the UK’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, addressed the UN Security Council in New York. Ambassador Kariuki opened by welcoming recent steps towards economic normalisation. He praised the announcement by the United States to lift sanctions on Syria, noting that “this positive step will create significant opportunity for economic recovery and development across Syria.” He added that the UK had similarly lifted its own sectoral sanctions in April, easing restrictions on trade, energy production and finance.
While acknowledging the vital importance of economic revival, the UK representative stressed that reconstruction must go hand in hand with a genuinely inclusive and peaceful political transition. He condemned recent attacks on Syria’s Druze community, warning that “there can be no lasting peace or better future for Syrians unless all of Syria’s communities are protected and fully included in Syria’s political transition”. He urged all parties to reject violence, engage in dialogue and safeguard civilian lives.
Ambassador Kariuki also called on Israel “to refrain from actions that risk destabilising Syria and to respect Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity”, reminder of regional dynamics that could undermine progress on the ground. Looking ahead, the UK pressed for a clear timetable from the new Syrian Government on next steps in the political transition. It welcomed the establishment of National Commissions for Transitional Justice and for Missing Persons, describing them as essential for “helping Syria heal and move forward after years of suffering”.