New York, July 28 (SANA) Syria is entering a new phase of international engagement focused on recovery and reconstruction, as senior United Nations officials said that Syria stands at a pivotal moment after years of conflict, with an opportunity to move beyond emergency assistance toward a more sustainable path centered on development and strengthening the resilience of local communities.
United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), Jorge Moreira da Silva, said on Tuesday in a post on X that ” Syria stands at a pivotal turning point”, following years of loss and suffering. He described the current period as a genuine opportunity to shape a brighter future for the Syrian people, echoing UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ assessment of the importance of the current stage.
Humanitarian Support Paving the Way for Recovery
Da Silva noted that UNOPS continues to implement programs across Syria by delivering medical equipment, expanding sustainable energy solutions in schools and hospitals, contributing to mine action, and working with partners to meet humanitarian needs while implementing long-term development projects.
The approach reflects a gradual shift in international engagement, moving beyond emergency relief toward investment in sectors that improve essential services and strengthen the capacity of institutions and local communities to recover, particularly in healthcare, energy and infrastructure.
From Emergency Assistance to Self-Reliance
Earlier, Edem Wosornu, Director of the Operations and Advocacy Division at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), told the UN Security Council that Syria is experiencing “a pivotal moment” requiring a transition from dependence on emergency assistance toward recovery and greater self-reliance.
Wosornu stressed that humanitarian operations continue to face significant challenges because of funding shortfalls affecting food and health assistance, making investment in early recovery programs and support for key sectors a priority in the coming period.
Da Silva’s remarks came after UN Secretary-General António Guterres visited Damascus, a visit Da Silva called as important and productive, reiterating that the United Nations will remain a steadfast partner for the Syrian people. He also called on the international community to provide political support for Syria and strengthen economic cooperation with the country.
Guterres’ visit—the first to Syria by a UN Secretary-General since taking office—carries significance beyond its diplomatic dimension, reflecting the United Nations’ growing focus on expanding international partnerships, promoting stability, and creating conditions conducive to recovery and sustainable development.
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