DAMASCUS: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Syria on Saturday for a landmark three-day visit, becoming the first UN chief to travel to the country since before the outbreak of Syria’s devastating civil war more than a decade ago.
The visit marks a significant diplomatic milestone as the United Nations seeks to reinforce its support for Syria’s political transition following the change in leadership that ended the rule of former President Bashar al-Assad.
According to Syria’s state news agency SANA, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani welcomed Guterres and the accompanying UN delegation upon their arrival at Damascus International Airport.
First UN Secretary-General Visit Since 2009
Guterres is the first Secretary-General of the United Nations to visit Syria since Ban Ki-moon travelled to Damascus in 2009, two years before the country’s civil war erupted in 2011.
The conflict lasted for more than 13 years, claiming the lives of over 500,000 people, displacing millions and causing widespread destruction before the government of Bashar al-Assad was overthrown in December 2024.
During his three-day visit, Guterres is expected to reaffirm the United Nations’ commitment to supporting Syria’s political transition under the administration of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed power following the collapse of Assad’s government.
The visit is also expected to focus on humanitarian assistance, reconstruction efforts and strengthening cooperation between the United Nations and Syria’s new leadership.
International Community Urges Inclusive Governance
Since President Ahmed al-Sharaa took office, the international community has called on Syria’s new authorities to establish strong state institutions and implement an inclusive political system representing the country’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.
Global leaders have also urged the transitional government to promote national reconciliation, protect human rights and restore stability after years of conflict that severely damaged the country’s economy and infrastructure.
Guterres’ visit is widely viewed as a sign of growing international engagement with Syria’s new leadership as diplomatic efforts continue to support the country’s recovery and long-term peace.
