Pakistan calls for comprehensive transitional justice in Syria amid peace and reconstruction efforts

New York (Web Desk): Pakistan has called on the international community to support Syria’s efforts toward achieving sustainable peace, stability, reconciliation and rebuilding after years of conflict.

Speaking at an Arria-formula meeting of the UN Security Council on transitional justice and missing persons in Syria, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said transitional justice was essential for reconciliation, recovery and peace-building in the war-torn country.

“Transitional justice is fundamental to reconciliation, recovery and peace-building in Syria,” Ambassador Asim said during the informal meeting, which allows UN Security Council members to hold open discussions on key issues.

Syria entered a new phase after a 14-year civil war ended with the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in December 2024, bringing an end to the Assad family’s decades-long rule.

The Pakistani envoy stressed that a comprehensive approach reflecting the aspirations of the Syrian people could help heal divisions, rebuild public trust and strengthen social unity.

The meeting was jointly arranged by Colombia and Denmark, along with non-Security Council members Luxembourg and Syria.

According to UN reports, Syria has witnessed significant political and social changes since the uprising that removed former President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024.

The country’s new leadership, headed by Ahmed al-Sharaa, has increased engagement with the international community, pledged accountability for past crimes and introduced major reforms.

Ambassador Asim welcomed steps taken by the Syrian government, including the creation of National Commissions for Transitional Justice and Missing Persons, as well as efforts to draft legislation on transitional justice.

He said these measures were important for addressing the impact of the conflict and meeting the expectations of victims and their families.

The Pakistani representative also highlighted the importance of cooperation between Syrian institutions and international mechanisms to promote truth, justice and accountability.

He noted that Syria had suffered years of devastating violence and humanitarian crises, adding that the global community should stand with the Syrian people as the country moves toward a new era of peace, recovery and reconstruction.