BERLIN (AP) — A coalition of foreign ministers from 14 countries reaffirmed their support Saturday for a Syrian-led political transition, emphasizing the need for women’s full participation in shaping the country’s future.
In a joint statement, the ministers from Albania, Andorra, Australia, Germany, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Mongolia, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and the Netherlands called for an “inclusive and representative” process that aligns with U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254.
“With the liberation from the Assad regime, Syria has entered a new political era,” the ministers said. “For the first time in 14 years, a political solution is within reach.”
The statement welcomed the Syrian transitional government’s plan to hold a national dialogue conference and noted the appointment of two women to its preparatory committee as “a step in the right direction.”
“We encourage the new transitional government to make the best use of existing domestic expertise, including Syria’s civil society and collaboration with the United Nations,” the ministers said.
They also stressed the importance of transitional justice and reconciliation, warning that unresolved atrocities from the conflict could fuel further instability.
“Syrian women, who have borne a disproportionate burden of the conflict, must have an equal place in the transition process,” the statement said. “Their participation is essential to sustainable peace and development.”
The ministers urged Syria’s new leadership to ensure women’s inclusion in politics, the judiciary, the economy, and all areas of public life.
