Pakistan opposes externally imposed solutions for Syria

Pakistan has called for a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transitional justice process, asserting that respect for national sovereignty is paramount for achieving lasting peace and stability in the war-torn Arab nation.

“

National ownership, reconciliation and inclusive institutions are essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in Syria.

Speaking at a UN Arria-Formula Meeting on Transitional Justice and Missing Persons in Syria, Pakistan's Permanent Representative, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, stressed that efforts to address the conflict's consequences must remain under Syrian control. He emphasized that international support should play only a complementary role.

“

Effective cooperation between Syrian national institutions and relevant international mechanisms should complement nationally led efforts while fully respecting Syria’s sovereignty and national ownership.

"National ownership, reconciliation and inclusive institutions are essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in Syria," Ambassador Ahmad stated. He welcomed steps taken by the Syrian government, such as establishing the National Commission for Transitional Justice and the National Commission for Missing Persons, and preparing a draft law on transitional justice. He added that effective cooperation between Syrian institutions and international mechanisms should complement nationally led efforts while fully respecting Syria’s sovereignty.

“

Transitional justice is vital to promoting reconciliation, restoring trust, strengthening social cohesion, and addressing the legitimate expectations of victims and their families.

Ambassador Ahmad elaborated that transitional justice is crucial not only for addressing past grievances but also for rebuilding Syrian society. He highlighted its importance in promoting reconciliation, restoring trust, strengthening social cohesion, and meeting the legitimate expectations of victims and their families. Pakistan's intervention comes amid ongoing international discussions on Syria's political transition, accountability for past abuses, the fate of missing persons, and reconstruction. Islamabad's core message is that sustainable peace requires a Syrian-led process, not externally imposed solutions, with international assistance respecting Syrian sovereignty.

“

Pakistan would continue to stand with Syria in its pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous future.