File photo : People gather for a mass demonstration in Syria's northeastern city of Qamishli protesting against a recent wave of sectarian violence targeting Syria's Alawite minority in the west of the country along the Mediterranean sea coast. AFP
He told the U.N. Security Council it “must not come to pass” that Syria backslides into conflict, fragmentation, and having its sovereignty routinely violated by external powers.
Pedersen said the other road, restoring sovereignty and regional security, “requires the right Syrian decisions,” but the country’s interim Islamist-led authorities can’t do it alone and need increased and continuing international support.
The U.N. special envoy, who will be returning to Damascus shortly, highlighted several priority areas for action and attention.
He asked whether the soon-to-be announced transitional government and transitional legislative council reflect Syria’s diversity, and include both men and women?
Pedersen said developments on a new constitution, accountability for crimes committed over decades, security, foreign fighters and the economy must also be addressed.
Short link: