UN Chief Guterres calls for global support on landmark Syria trip

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Damascus on Saturday, marking the first visit by a UN chief to Syria in 17 years. He urged the international community to rally behind the country's fragile recovery as it emerges from over a decade of devastating civil war and begins rebuilding under new leadership.

Guterres' trip is the first by a UN secretary-general since Ban Ki-moon visited in 2009. The visit follows the overthrow of longtime President Bashar Assad in December 2024 and the establishment of a new government led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa. "The U.N. stands with Syria at this pivotal moment, and I appeal to the international community to spare no effort to support the people of Syria as well," Guterres stated on X shortly after landing.

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The U.N. stands with Syria at this pivotal moment, and I appeal to the international community to spare no effort to support the people of Syria as well.

Syrian state media reported that Guterres met with President al-Sharaa at the People's Palace. Images showed the UN chief touring the historic Old City and visiting the Umayyad Mosque. Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani welcomed Guterres and the UN delegation at Damascus International Airport.

The visit signifies a new phase in relations between the UN and Syria, reflecting renewed international engagement with the transitional government. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric noted that Guterres would emphasize Syria's opportunity not only to recover from conflict but also to build a more stable, inclusive, and prosperous future. Guterres is also expected to meet with Syrian civil society representatives, including those advocating for women's rights.

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The opportunity now is not only to recover from conflict, but also to lay the foundations for a future for Syria that will be more stable, more inclusive and more prosperous for all Syrians.