Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa Makes Historic Address at the U.N.
For the first time in nearly 60 years, a Syrian president addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, marking a significant shift in the country's diplomatic relations with the international community. According to sources, hundreds of people gathered in front of giant screens in Syrian cities and towns to witness President Al-Sharaa's speech while waving the country's flags.
President Al-Sharaa's address was a milestone moment for Syria, which has historically maintained a distance from the U.N. General Assembly. The last time a Syrian president spoke at the assembly was in 1963, when President Amin al-Hafiz addressed the gathering. Since then, Syria's leaders have largely avoided participating in the annual event.
During his speech, President Al-Sharaa emphasized the importance of international cooperation and dialogue in resolving global conflicts. According to sources, he also highlighted the need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Syrian civil war, which has left millions displaced and thousands dead. "We must work together to build a more just and equitable world," President Al-Sharaa said, according to an official transcript of his speech.
The significance of President Al-Sharaa's address extends beyond Syria's borders. The country's participation in the U.N. General Assembly comes as the international community grapples with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. According to a statement from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the global arms race is escalating tensions and threatening regional stability.
The timing of President Al-Sharaa's address also coincides with efforts by the U.N. Security Council to broker a peace agreement between warring parties in Syria. Diplomats say that the president's participation in the assembly marks an important step towards rebuilding trust between the international community and the Syrian government.
As the world watches, experts are weighing in on the implications of President Al-Sharaa's address. "This is a significant development for Syria and the region," said Dr. Amr Darrag, a Middle East expert at the Brookings Institution. "The president's participation in the assembly sends a signal that Syria is committed to engaging with the international community and finding peaceful solutions to its conflicts."
In conclusion, President Al-Sharaa's historic address at the U.N. General Assembly marks a new chapter in Syria's diplomatic relations with the world. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of war and reconstruction, its participation in the assembly is a crucial step towards building trust and cooperation with the international community.
Sources:
The Associated Press
Brookings Institution
This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics and NPR News.
