Syrian President, UN Secretary-General Hold Talks in Damascus

Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the Syrian Arab Republic and the United Nations in the humanitarian and developmental fields with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and his accompanying delegation.

According to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), the two sides also discussed—during a meeting held today, Saturday, at the People's Palace in Damascus, in the presence of Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani and a number of concerned officials—supporting early recovery and reconstruction efforts, while emphasizing respect for Syria's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.

Guterres began a historic visit to Syria, the first by a UN Secretary-General since 2009.

He arrived at Damascus International Airport this morning, where he was received by the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates.

Following his arrival in Damascus, Guterres affirmed via his account on the "X" platform that the United Nations stands with Syria at this pivotal moment, describing his visit as one of "solidarity" and appealing to the international community to spare no effort in supporting the Syrian people.

Prior to Guterres's arrival, the United Nations had announced that its Secretary-General would reaffirm the commitment to supporting the Syrian government and people at this critical stage in the country's history.

The UN noted that he would emphasize the importance of respecting Syria's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, adding that the visit would also serve as an opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the hopes and challenges facing Syrians, as well as the lasting impacts of the long years of war.