U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pederson met today in Aqaba, Jordan, to discuss the ongoing crisis in Syria and the prospects for a political transition. The meeting, which comes amid increasing international focus on Syria’s future, underscored the critical need for a Syrian-led political process that involves all communities and preserves the country’s state institutions.
Secretary Blinken emphasized the United States’ commitment to supporting a Syrian-led transition in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. He highlighted the role of the United Nations in providing humanitarian aid, protecting minority groups, and facilitating the broader transition to a stable, inclusive government. “We are determined to work together to support the Syrian people in this time of both opportunity and challenge,” Blinken stated. “The U.S. remains committed to ensuring that Syria transitions to a government that is accountable to all of its citizens.”
Special Envoy Pederson echoed Blinken’s sentiments, stressing the importance of a credible and inclusive political process in Syria. “What is critical for Syria is that we see a process that brings together all communities and ensures that state institutions do not collapse,” Pederson remarked. He also emphasized the urgency of delivering humanitarian assistance and preventing further deterioration of Syria’s infrastructure. “If we can achieve that, perhaps there is a new opportunity for the Syrian people,” he added.
The two leaders discussed the complex and ongoing challenges in Syria, where the conflict has devastated the country for over a decade, displacing millions and causing immense human suffering. The U.S. and the UN both agree that a comprehensive political solution, coupled with international cooperation, is essential for Syria’s future.
The discussions took place in the backdrop of the ongoing efforts by the international community to stabilize the region, prevent the resurgence of terrorist groups like ISIS, and promote peace and security across the Middle East. The focus on Syria remains a key element of both U.S. foreign policy and the United Nations’ peacekeeping and humanitarian mandates.
Looking ahead, Blinken and Pederson expressed optimism that collaborative efforts, grounded in international law and human rights protections, could pave the way for a better future for the Syrian people. The meeting marks another step in the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the Syrian crisis and support its recovery.