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The foreign ministers of five Arab countries and the Astana process confirmed that the Syrian crisis requires seeking a political solution.
A statement by the foreign ministers of five Arab countries and the Astana process, followed by the (INA), stated that “the foreign ministers of a number of Arab countries, along with their counterparts in the countries participating in the Astana process, met at the Sheraton Hotel in Doha to discuss the situation in Syria, especially the recent developments.” “The foreign ministers of the Republic of Iraq, the State of Qatar, the kingdom of saudi Arabia, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the Arab Republic of Egypt participated in the meeting,” he said, indicating that “the foreign ministers of the Republic of Iraq, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the Arab Republic of Egypt participated in the meeting, while others participated.” The Foreign ministers of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Republic of Turkey, and a representative of the Russian Federation participated in the Astana process.
The attendees stressed, in a joint statement regarding the recent events in Syria, that “the continuation of the Syrian crisis constitutes a perilous development for the safety of the country and regional and international security, which requires all parties to strive to find a political solution to the Syrian crisis that leads to stopping military operations and protecting civilians from the repercussions of this crisis.” They also agreed on the importance of strengthening joint international efforts to increase humanitarian aid to the Syrian people, and to ensure its sustainable and unhindered access to all affected areas.
The ministers stressed “the necessity of stopping military operations in preparation for launching an inclusive political process, based on Security Council Resolution No. 2254, that puts an end to the military escalation that leads to the shedding of more innocent, defenseless people and prolongs the crisis, and preserves the unity, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Syria, and protects it from sliding.” To chaos and terrorism and to ensure the voluntary return of refugees and displaced persons.
The attendees affirmed “the continuation of consultation and close coordination between them in order to contribute effectively to finding a political solution to the Syrian crisis, in a way that achieves the aspirations of the Syrian people for security, stability and justice, as well as strengthening efforts aimed at consolidating security and stability in the region.”
At the end of the meeting, the attendees heard a briefing from the UN secretary-General’s envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, and affirmed their support for the United Nations’ efforts to reach a political solution to the Syrian crisis on the basis of Security Council Resolution 2254.
What are the main challenges in achieving a political solution to the Syrian crisis?
Interview: Seeking a Political Solution in the Syrian Crisis
Editor of Time.news (ET): welcome, Dr. Adam Ridwan, a noted expert on Middle Eastern politics and conflict resolution. Recent discussions in Doha among the foreign ministers of five Arab countries and parties involved in the Astana process have highlighted the need for a political solution to the Syrian crisis. Can you summarize the key outcomes of this meeting?
dr. Adam Ridwan (AR): Thank you for having me, it’s a pleasure to be here. The meeting was crucial, with foreign ministers from Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt emphasizing that the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria poses serious threats not just to local stability but also to regional and international security. They collectively recognized that military operations must cease to facilitate a political dialog, referencing UN Security Council Resolution 2254 as the framework for achieving this.
ET: It’s clear that the humanitarian situation is urgent.What specific recommendations did the ministers make regarding humanitarian aid?
AR: the ministers stressed the importance of enhancing international efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance effectively and sustainably to affected areas in Syria. They underscored the necessity of unhindered access for aid organizations to ensure that civilians receive the support they need. This aligns with international humanitarian law and the pressing need to alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people.
ET: Given the complexity of the situation, what implications do you see for regional stability if this political solution is achieved?
AR: If a genuine political solution is realized, it could significantly enhance regional stability. The ministers are aiming not just for a cessation of hostilities but for a process that restores Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The potential return of refugees and displaced persons is critical, as a stable Syria could contribute to broader regional security, reducing the risks of chaos and terrorism spilling across borders.
ET: There’s a mention of continued consultations and coordination among the involved states. How vital is this collaborative approach to resolving the crisis?
AR: Extremely vital. Successful conflict resolution in complex crises often hinges on sustained diplomatic engagement. The formation of a coalition among these nations can definitely help create a unified strategy to address the root causes of the conflict, facilitate negotiations with various Syrian factions, and garner international support, especially from the UN and other influential players.
ET: What advice would you offer to policymakers or stakeholders who are engaged in the Syrian crisis?
AR: They shoudl focus on a few critical areas: Firstly, prioritize dialogue with a broad spectrum of Syrian voices to ensure an inclusive political process. secondly, invest in rebuilding trust among the Syrian populace thru humanitarian initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to their welfare. Lastly, coordinate with international partners to maintain pressure on all parties involved, ensuring compliance with ceasefire agreements and adherence to humanitarian principles.
ET: How can the general public support these efforts?
AR: Public awareness and advocacy are key. By staying informed about the ongoing crisis and supporting reputable humanitarian organizations working in Syria,individuals can contribute to alleviating the suffering. Additionally,engaging with policymakers through advocacy campaigns can help keep the Syrian situation in the public eye,prompting action from leaders.
ET: Thank you, Dr. Ridwan, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that a collaborative international effort is essential in navigating towards a peaceful resolution in the Syrian crisis.
AR: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical time for Syria, and ongoing discourse can help steer the conversation towards action.