26 Feb 2018

The Government of the Republic of Botswana has been closely following with deep concern, the worsening humanitarian situation in Syria.

It is disheartening to note that since 2011, we continue to witness the brutality and crimes against humanity perpetrated by the Assad regime on a daily basis.

This deplorable situation thus, calls into question the efficacy and commitment of the international community, as a collective, to have the Syrian situation expeditiously resolved in order to bring peace to Syria.

Botswana therefore, finds it regrettable that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), which is charged with the responsibility to maintain international peace and stability, is still failing to find a durable solution to the conflict.

Whilst welcoming the recent adoption of a resolution by the UNSC calling for a 30-day ceasefire in Syria to enable delivery of emergency aid and the evacuation of those injured, the need for a permanent solution to the Syrian crisis remains an absolute necessity.

In this regard, we urge the UNSC to redouble its efforts and put an end to the continuing carnage and inhumane suffering of the Syrian people.

It is saddening to note that some of the Permanent Members of the United Nations Security Council, who hold the veto power, continuously make attempts to frustrate international efforts to resolve the Syrian conflict since they are part of the ongoing conflict.

Such members have, in our view, abdicated their responsibility of bringing peace and stability in Syria.     

It is also our considered view that for as long as the Syrian conflict continues, the international community would have failed Syria.

This situation thus renders the United Nations Security Council irrelevant. We therefore, appeal to the United Nations Security Council to play its rightful role in order that the Syrian people can enjoy a peaceful and dignified life. Ministry of International Affairs and Cooperation