"Statement by Ambassador Usman Jadoon,Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN,At the UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian and Political Situation in Syria(27 August 2026)****We thank Deputy Special Envoy Cordone and OCHA Acting ASG Ratwatte for their briefings. We have also listened carefully to the perspective shared by Ms. Roukbi.Madam President,2. We are extremely pleased to see that the discussion on Syria has transformed. After years of conflict, fragmentation and humanitarian emergency in the country, there is now a genuine opportunity to focus on stabilization, recovery and return to normalcy. That opportunity must be seized, preserved and supported.3. An essential part of this effort is the continued consolidation of the Syrian State and its institutions. The integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces into state structures is an important development in that regard. Alongside this, we are heartened to witness the significant political transition continuing to broadening participation, strengthening national cohesion and responding to the aspirations of the Syrian people. Ultimately, sustainable stability can only emerge from a peaceful, inclusive, Syrian-owned and Syrian-led political process.4. The visit of Syrias Foreign Minister to Pakistan last week, at the invitation of our Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister reflected the renewed momentum in our longstanding brotherly relations. Both sides expressed their determination to deepen political engagement and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.5. The same spirit of constructive engagement is being witnessed internationally. The easing of economic restrictions on Syria, including the lifting of sanctions and designations by the United States, has created greater space for economic recovery and international reintegration. Increasing cooperation and investment from countries in the region and beyond has provided further reason for optimism. The measure of success, however, will be whether these developments translate into economic activity, accelerate reconstruction and bring tangible improvements to the lives of people all of which is on a positive trajectory.6. This is particularly important because the humanitarian situation has not fully abated. Millions continue to depend on assistance. Humanitarian support must therefore be sustained even as greater attention is devoted to recovery and reconstruction. 7. Syrias emerging stability must also be protected against terrorism. Daesh and Foreign Terrorist Fighters continue to pose a serious threat. Coordinated counter-terrorism efforts remain essential to prevent its resurgence and preserve Syria's hard-won stability. At the same time, the difficult legacy of the conflict must be addressed through transitional justice pursued fairly, impartially and in a manner that contributes to national reconciliation.8. We also recognize the wisdom shown by the Syrian leadership in a region experiencing heightened tensions and confrontation. Syria has prudently sought to avoid being drawn into a wider conflict. 9. Against all this backdrop, Israeli military escalation against Syria is deeply concerning. Pakistan strongly condemns the attack carried out by Israel on Abu al-Duhur Airbase in violation of international law. Full respect for the 1974 Disengagement Agreement must be ensured, alongside the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from all occupied areas.These are essential steps to prevent further escalation and safeguard regional peace and stability. We also reiterate that the Syrian Golan is an occupied Syrian territory, as affirmed by Security Council Resolutions 338 and 497.10. Pakistan reiterates its full support for the sovereignty, and territorial integrity as well as peace and prosperity of Syria.11. Syria has endured more than a decade of devastating conflict. Syrias priority today is to move decisively towards a future of unity, stability and prosperity, and Pakistan will continue to stand with the brotherly Syrian people in that endeavour.*******"