SC: Bendjama Advocates for Political Solution to Resolve Syrian Crisis

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

ALGIERS- The permanent representative of Algeria to the United Nations, Amar Bendjama, emphasized on Thursday, on behalf of the A3+ group (Algeria, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, and Guyana), the importance of reaching a “genuine and credible” political solution to resolve the crisis in Syria.

“We urge the parties to break the current deadlock regarding the convening of the 9th meeting of the constitutional committee. At this critical moment for Syria, it is imperative that the process led and supported by Syrians, with the backing of the international community, continues toward a lasting resolution of the crisis that has afflicted Syria for over 13 years,” stated Mr. Bendjama in a Joint Statement of the A3+, delivered at a Security Council meeting on the humanitarian and political situation in Syria.

“After enduring so much instability and suffering, Syria needs support to overcome its current political and economic challenges,” continued the ambassador.

Furthermore, he added: “In line with the call by the Secretary-General, we emphasize the importance of achieving a genuine and credible political solution that meets the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people, restores sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity of Syria, in accordance with Security Council resolution 2254 (2015), and facilitates the safe and dignified return of refugees.”

In this regard, the diplomat stressed: “We welcome the efforts made by the UN Special Envoy to advance the inclusive political process and achieve a sustainable solution.”

“The A3+ recognizes the essential role of Syrian women and youth in establishing lasting peace in Syria,” noted the ambassador, stating that “their active participation is crucial for a comprehensive and sustainable resolution of the crisis.”

“Women and youth bring unique perspectives to the table, making their participation indispensable in shaping Syria’s future,” he emphasized.

“We express our regret,” continued the diplomat, “over the deterioration of the situation and repeated attacks in the Golan Heights and urge the immediate cessation of these actions, emphasizing respect for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and rejecting any external interference.”

“The resumption of hostilities only perpetuates insecurity, undermines achievements and progress already made in the political process, and risks fueling terrorist activities not only in Syria but also across the region,” he warned.

In this regard, Mr. Bendjama specified, “the A3+ calls for efficient coordination to effectively combat terrorism in Syria to enable the Syrian government to regain control of its entire territory.”

“Thirteen years after the start of the Syrian crisis, the humanitarian situation remains disastrous, with 16.7 million people in need, over half of whom are women, and an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, plunging Syrians into profound despair,” he lamented, noting that “more than 90% of Syrians now live in poverty, and the economy is in freefall due to tightened sanctions.”

“The A3+ calls for sufficient and predictable funding of the Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) in Syria to address the food insecurity crisis and meet the needs of the Syrian population.”

Mr. Bendjama particularly lamented the fact that “underfunding of the HRP in 2023 (less than 40% of the initial requirement) forced humanitarian agencies to reduce food assistance and suspend health services, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.”

“We believe that Syria should not continue to rely solely on humanitarian funding and emphasize the importance of investment to reduce dependence on external aid and alleviate the humanitarian burden,” he stressed.

Furthermore, he added: “We support the vision of the Early Recovery Project of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and call for adequate funding, but we recognize that additional efforts are needed to meet the needs of the Syrian population and facilitate the safe return of refugees and displaced persons.”

To achieve this, the diplomat continued, “Syria must revitalize its economic growth and prosperity.”

Therefore, “the A3+ calls for the easing of sanctions against Syria, as they have a negative impact on the country’s economy and exacerbate humanitarian challenges.”

“Peace promotion and sustainable development are interconnected,” reassured the diplomat.

In this regard, Mr. Bendjama reiterated the A3+’s call for a “nationwide ceasefire and immediate negotiations between the parties for a political settlement, in accordance with resolution 2254 (2015), to establish peace, stability, and sustainable development in Syria.”

About Dzair Tube Media Group

Dzair Tube has firmly established itself as a prominent player among Algerian digital news sites, offering a diverse and enriching content experience. The platform, available in Arabic, French, and English editions, captures the attention of a wide-ranging audience, amassing over half a million daily clicks.

A testament to its commitment to excellence, Dzair Tube received the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This recognition underscores the platform’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism.

With a significant online presence, Dzair Tube boasts 350,000 subscribers on YouTube, over five million followers on various Facebook pages, and 450,000 subscribers on Instagram. Its digital channel has become a hub for diverse programming, covering news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.

Equipped with state-of-the-art studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has garnered substantial viewership for its varied programs. Hosting interactive discussions with influential figures across different domains, the platform actively fosters public discourse and engagement. Beyond news coverage, Dzair Tube extends its commitment to the production of marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership programs.

The success of the print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further highlights the platform’s impact, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.

Recently honored with the Media Leadership Award from the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the landscape of Algerian digital news, maintaining a position of influence and impact in the media industry.