New York, Dec. 8 (SANA) UN Secretary-General António Guterres saluted the resilience and courage of the Syrian people, saying they “have never stopped holding on to hope, despite the unimaginable suffering they endured under a repressive regime that lasted for decades.”
Guterres said the eve of the first anniversary of Syria’s liberation is “a day to honor the sacrifices of this people and to renew the aspirations that drove the historic change in the country,” affirming the United Nations’ commitment to working with Syrians to ensure the success of the national transition.
“The challenges are great, but not insurmountable,” he stated, noting that the past year demonstrated that genuine progress is possible “when Syrians are empowered and supported to lead the transition themselves.”
The Secretary-General said groups across Syria are actively engaged in establishing institutions and governing structures that will shape the country’s future. He highlighted the leadership role of Syrian women, whom he described as continuing to “lead the march toward securing their rights and achieving justice and equality.”
While acknowledging the scale of humanitarian needs, Guterres pointed to progress made by the Syrian government in restoring basic services, expanding humanitarian access, and creating avenues for the return of refugees and internally displaced people. He added that efforts to establish transitional-justice mechanisms and widen civic participation are contributing to building an inclusive and accountable future state.
Guterres called on the international community to firmly support the Syrian-led, Syrian-owned transition by respecting Syria’s sovereignty, removing obstacles to reconstruction, funding humanitarian appeals, promoting economic development, and ensuring that the transition yields clear, positive results for Syrians on the ground.
He concluded by saying: “In this anniversary, we stand united in purpose to build the foundations of peace and prosperity, and to renew our commitment to a free, sovereign, unified and inclusive Syria.”
As Syrians mark the first anniversary of their revolution’s victory and the end of decades of repression, communities across the country are observing the date as the beginning of a new chapter focused on justice, dignity and national renewal.
