Cairo, Aug 16, 2023, In a significant development, the Arab ministerial contact group on Syria held a highly anticipated meeting on Tuesday, where they deliberated on the pressing issues surrounding the ongoing crisis. Following their discussions, the group released a statement that outlined their collective stance on the matter. In response to an invitation from Sameh Shoukry, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Arab Republic of Egypt, a significant meeting took place on Tuesday, August 15, 2023. This gathering was organized to implement Resolution 822, which was issued by the Arab League Council at the Summit level on May 19, 2023. Attending this meeting were the Ministers of Foreign Affairs from the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Republic of Iraq, and the Republic of Lebanon, along with the Secretary-General of the Arab League. Notably, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Syrian Arab Republic was also present. In a bid to bolster the Arab leadership's involvement in tackling the Syrian crisis and its far-reaching political, security, and humanitarian consequences, a meeting was convened to provide a comprehensive update on the progress made in implementing the Amman Communique. This significant gathering, held on [date], sought to build upon the commitments outlined in the communiqué, which was issued on May 1, 2023. In a concerted effort to advance their shared objective, the participants convened a meeting aimed at fostering ongoing discussions. The primary focus was to adhere to a systematic approach, in accordance with U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254. This resolution, which underscores the importance of upholding Syria's unity, cohesion, and sovereignty, also emphasizes the fulfillment of the Syrian people's aspirations, the eradication of terrorism, and the creation of favorable circumstances for the voluntary and secure repatriation of refugees, prioritizing their humanitarian needs. In a high-level meeting, the contact group convened with the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates to delve into the latest happenings in Syria. The esteemed members of the committee and the Syrian government engaged in fruitful discussions regarding their ongoing communications with the United Nations and other friendly nations. In a concerted effort to steer the crisis towards a comprehensive resolution in line with pertinent international benchmarks, communication has emerged as a crucial component. During the meeting, a strong emphasis was placed on the urgent need to implement practical and effective measures in order to address the crisis in a gradual manner. During a recent discussion on the implementation of the Amman Communique, participants emphasized the crucial need for a political solution to effectively address the Syrian crisis. They expressed optimism about the resumption of the constitutional process as a means to achieve this objective. Specifically, there were hopes for the upcoming meeting of the Syrian Constitutional Committee, which is expected to take place in Oman before the year's end in close coordination with the United Nations. During the meeting, participants reached a consensus on the crucial nature of completing this path as one of the key elements of the proposed political resolution and the process of national reconciliation in Syria. In a resolute display of solidarity, world leaders convened to underscore the pressing need for heightened endeavors to alleviate the dire humanitarian plight of the Syrian people. In accordance with the international community's solemn responsibilities in this regard, attendees of the meeting wholeheartedly embraced the recent collaborative accord between the United Nations and the Syrian Arab Republic, which was publicly disclosed on August 7, 2023. This landmark agreement pertains to the crucial provision of humanitarian aid via the Bab al-Hawa Crossing and is set to span an impressive duration of six months. In a significant development, the Syrian government has announced its decision to extend the opening of the Bab al-Salam and Al-Raei crossings for humanitarian assistance. This move has been warmly received by various stakeholders. The extension, which will be in effect until November 13, 2023, is expected to facilitate the much-needed flow of humanitarian aid into the region. In a recent development, the esteemed members of the Ministerial Contact Group have voiced their aspirations for the uninterrupted and unaltered provision of crucial humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable sections of society. Additionally, they have expressed their desire for the Syrian government to take further actions to facilitate the utilization of border crossings for humanitarian endeavors. During a recent meeting, the Liaison Committee and the Syrian Minister underscored the urgent need to tackle the refugee crisis and its far-reaching consequences for both the Syrian population and the countries hosting them. In a recent statement, the significance of bolstering collaboration between the Syrian government and the nations hosting refugees has been emphasized. The aim is to create an environment that enables refugees to return voluntarily and safely, ultimately putting an end to their enduring hardships. In a move aimed at ensuring effective collaboration, it has been proposed that this endeavor be undertaken in close coordination with pertinent United Nations entities, most notably the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This approach aligns with established protocols and guidelines governing such matters. Emphasizing its significance, they underscored the imperative to take action on this particular matter. In addition, the participants stressed the significance of increasing cooperation with the global community and the United Nations in order to expedite the implementation of early recovery initiatives. Advocating for the expansion of humanitarian efforts and simultaneously establishing the necessary foundation for the recovery process, they demonstrated a commitment to broadening the scope of their endeavors. The Syrian Minister highlighted the various procedures and provisions that have been implemented by Syria in this regard. In a recent statement, he highlighted the ongoing collaboration and dialogue between the Syrian government and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). With a focus on the supportive measures extended by the Syrian government, he underscored their efforts to facilitate the activities of the Commission within the borders of Syria. In a resolute statement, the Minister emphasized the unwavering dedication of the government to implementing and bolstering these measures. This commitment extends to streamlining the process of establishing new offices for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in regions where refugees are returning. In a statement, he emphasized that regular updates will be provided regarding the initiatives implemented to streamline the process of refugee repatriation. These updates will encompass the incorporation of refugees within the framework of presidential pardons. In a recent statement, the Syrian Minister reaffirmed the government's unwavering dedication to providing regular updates on the returning refugee population. In a recent statement, he emphasized the Syrian government's unwavering commitment to actively engaging with the Commission on refugee return matters. Furthermore, he highlighted the ongoing collaborative initiatives between Syria and Jordan, in line with the provisions outlined in the Amman Statement. Notably, these efforts are being closely coordinated with various U.N. bodies, with the ultimate objective of facilitating the smooth and successful repatriation of one thousand refugees from Jordan. In a recent development, key points have been underscored. The government is taking proactive measures to facilitate the return of refugees by providing incentives and simplifying the necessary procedures. This initiative is being carried out in close collaboration with the host countries to ensure effective coordination. Additionally, efforts are underway to establish a registration platform for refugees who express their desire to return, with the cooperation of both host nations and relevant United Nations entities. The Syrian government has the crucial task of disseminating information pertaining to the necessary provisions for regions designated for refugee repatriation. In a recent statement, the Liaison Committee underscored the pressing importance of strengthening initiatives aimed at facilitating the exchange of abductees and detainees while also prioritizing the task of locating missing individuals. The committee has emphasized the significance of collaborating with international organizations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in order to effectively address these critical issues. In a recent statement, the Syrian Minister emphasized his country's unwavering dedication to the ongoing initiatives aimed at securing the release of all Syrian abductees. He emphasized the importance of providing regular updates on the progress made in this regard, including sharing pertinent information with the families of the abductees and disclosing their whereabouts whenever feasible. In a resolute statement, the Minister emphasized that this commitment serves as a testament to the Syrian government's unwavering dedication to carrying out its national duty on this particular issue. In a significant development, participants expressed their warm reception towards the forthcoming inaugural gathering of the Jordanian-Syrian joint security committee. Scheduled to take place in July 2023, this momentous meeting aims to effectively manage borders and tackle the pressing issues of drug production and smuggling. In a significant development, the governments of Iraq and Syria have expressed their warm embrace of joint cooperation in the crucial domain of drug control. This collaborative effort entails the exchange of vital information, which has yielded remarkable results. In a commendable display of synergy, the two nations successfully dismantled an extensive international smuggling network in August 2023. This illicit operation was responsible for the transportation of narcotics across various countries in the region. Furthermore, the governments are actively engaged in finalizing a memorandum of understanding, underscoring their commitment to combat drug trafficking. During the gathering, the participants fervently conveyed their hopes for sustained and strengthened collaboration between Syria and neighboring countries. Their shared objective is to effectively combat the escalating threat of drug production and smuggling in the region. Members of the Arab Ministerial Contact Committee have emphasized the importance of providing support to combat terrorism in Syria. They have called for increased cooperation between the Syrian government, concerned countries, and the United Nations. Additionally, they have urged the international community to play an active role in eliminating this threat in all its forms and manifestations. The committee has also called for the eradication of all sources of terrorism and for the support of Syria and its institutions in their efforts to combat terrorism, preserve the country's sovereignty and security, and put an end to the presence of armed and terrorist groups on Syrian territory. Furthermore, they have called for the withdrawal of all illegal foreign forces in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter, with the aim of safeguarding the security of Syria and the wider region. In a significant development, the Contact Committee has presented a series of proposals to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Syrian Arab Republic aimed at effectively implementing the Amman Declaration. During the recent briefing, the Contact Committee was apprised of the Syrian Arab Republic's endeavors across multiple sectors. The Committee, in turn, urged the Syrian government to persist in its measures and protocols aimed at addressing the wide-ranging ramifications of the Syrian crisis. These efforts are crucial in fulfilling the hopes and ambitions of the Syrian people, as they strive to surmount the obstacles at hand and forge a path towards a more promising tomorrow. The participants at the meeting conveyed their gratitude to the Arab Republic of Egypt for extending an invitation and graciously hosting the event. They also applauded the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants' active participation, who in turn thanked the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic for the crucial role the Arab Contact Committee played. The Minister emphasized the commitment to utilize this committee as a means to reinstate Syria's rightful position on both the Arab and international stages while simultaneously bolstering the mechanisms of collective Arab endeavors. In a significant development, the participants have reached a consensus to convene the upcoming meeting of the esteemed Contact Committee in the vibrant city of Baghdad. Additionally, they have collectively decided to establish a dedicated contact group comprising experts who will diligently oversee and make necessary preparations for the forthcoming gathering.
Ahmed Saleh