Ankara: UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Claudio Cordone on Thursday welcomed the US decision to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, saying the move could support economic recovery, while stressing the urgency of preparing for elections at the end of the country's political transition. According to Anadolu Agency, Cordone briefed the UN Security Council, noting that the decision could help create 'more favorable conditions for economic recovery, investment, and broader international engagement with Syria.'
Citing an International Monetary Fund mission to Damascus last month, he indicated that economic recovery was accelerating, with double-digit growth projected for 2026. Despite this positive outlook, he warned that 'widespread poverty and renewed inflation mean conditions remain very difficult for most Syrians.'
Cordone emphasized that Syria could not tackle the transition challenges alone, calling for enhanced international support for humanitarian, recovery, and development needs, as well as creating conditions for safe, dignified, and voluntary returns. He highlighted that the success of the political transition would ultimately be gauged by whether all Syrians feel represented in state institutions and can meaningfully participate in shaping their country's future, a sentiment echoed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during his recent visit to Syria.
On the security front, Cordone expressed concern over ongoing Israeli military activities in southern Syria, such as ground incursions, house searches, and the destruction of private and agricultural property. He remarked that Israel's continued presence east of the ceasefire line violates Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, inconsistent with the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. He reiterated that the Golan Heights remain occupied Syrian territory under international law.
Nevertheless, he welcomed recent direct Israeli-Syrian contacts and talks in Jordan, along with US efforts to mediate a security arrangement. 'Diplomacy must prevail, and negotiation should progress within the framework of international law,' Cordone stated.
He concluded that the UN would continue collaborating closely with Syrian authorities and the UN country team, aiming to expand cooperation through the restructured UN presence in Damascus and support a 'serious, successful transition.'