Le groupe A3+ encourage la poursuite du dialogue entre l’OIAC et la Syrie
Summary of the Recent Security Council Meeting on Syria
On Thursday, the A3+ group at the United Nations Security Council expressed support for Syria’s willingness to establish transparent relations with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). This dialogue and cooperation aim to resolve any outstanding issues related to chemical weapons.
In a statement delivered by Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama during a Security Council meeting focused on Syria, the A3+ group—composed of Algeria, Somalia, Sierra Leone, and Guyana—reiterated its commitment to fully implementing the Chemical Weapons Convention. The group condemned the use of chemical weapons by any party, regardless of context.
The A3+ also welcomed the positive engagements between the OPCW and Syria, highlighting the recent visit of the OPCW Director-General to Damascus and meetings with the transitional Syrian president and foreign minister. The group’s appreciation extended to Syria’s readiness to create a transparent relationship with the OPCW, which includes allowing the organization to set up offices in Damascus. Authorities have pledged to provide the necessary access and cooperation for OPCW experts during their technical meetings with Syrian specialists.
Concerning Syria’s security situation, Ambassador Bendjama expressed the A3+ group’s deep concern over the increasing instances of Israeli airstrikes in various parts of Syria, particularly regarding the occupation of 460 square kilometers of Syrian territory since December 2024. Specific incidents mentioned included airstrikes near the presidential palace in Damascus on May 2 and attacks on Latakia and Tartous on May 30, which the A3+ condemned strongly.
The A3+ called for an immediate cessation of all attacks on Syrian territory while reaffirming Syria’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
In conclusion, the A3+ group’s statements reflect a balanced approach, emphasizing both the necessity of cooperation with the OPCW and the urgent need to address ongoing security concerns in Syria.
