United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres held a press conference in the capital Damascus following his two-day visit to Syria.
Guterres said he also visited Sednaya Prison during his trip, adding,
"I was deeply horrified by the allegations that tens of thousands of people were killed and tortured there."
The Secretary-General emphasized that he is hopeful about Syria's future, saying the country needs security, stability, and economic opportunities.
Speaking clearly about the sanctions imposed during the ousted Bashar al-Assad regime, Guterres said,
"All sanctions must be lifted immediately. The Syrian people should not bear the burden of recovery alone."
Calling on the international community, the UN Secretary-General called for political, economic and practical support to strengthen basic services, infrastructure, education and health systems. He also noted that assistance is needed for the safe, voluntary and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced people.
Guterres said he was impressed by his meeting with Syrian People's Assembly Speaker Abdulhamid Avvak, adding that he was briefed on the assembly's work on legal regulations and internal bylaws.
Stating that the UN is ready to support accountability, transitional justice, human rights and reconciliation efforts in Syria, Guterres said the participation of all segments of society is essential for the rule of law, a lasting constitution and free elections.
Strongly condemning Israel's violations of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, Guterres said,
"These violations are unacceptable and must end."
He also announced that he will submit a comprehensive report to the UN on Israel's violations in one month.
Responding to questions from an AA correspondent, the Secretary-General said he was beyond optimistic about the future of cooperation, adding,
"I have no doubt that with the support of the international community, the Syrian people can rebuild their country."
Guterres also met with civil society representatives and ordinary people during the visit, adding that he saw great determination in them.
