African and Arab groups in UNSC affirm their support for Syria’s sovereignty and the need to lift Western sanctions

NEW YORK, Apr.26, (ST)-Algeria and 3 African countries representing the A3+ group reiterated their firm support for the unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Syria, and their condemnation of the Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, calling for their cessation.

The Algerian Press Service quoted Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Amar Ben Jame’a, as saying in a speech he delivered on behalf of the A3+ group during the UN Security Council session on Syria yesterday: “Supporting the unity, sovereignty, and independence of Syria is not about abstract values, but rather fundamental principles that must be respected by all.”

Ben Jame’a expressed the African Group’s strong condemnation of the repeated Israeli attacks and incursions into Syrian territory, which violate international law, the UN Charter, particularly Article 2, which prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

He emphasized the need for full respect for the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.

The Algerian diplomat also stressed the need to lift Western sanctions imposed on Syria, saying that the reconstruction of Syria requires the support of the international community.

He also underscored the need to create favorable conditions to prevent the resurgence of terrorism, which threatens both Syrians and international peace and security.

Ben Jame’a highlighted the suffering of Syrians due to Western economic sanctions, saying, “We must help Syrians rebuild their lives and communities. This step requires investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to pave the way for long-term prosperity.”

For his part, the Libyan Ambassador to the United Nations Taher El Sunni, in his address to the UN Security Council on behalf of the Arab Group, reiterated his country’s and the Arab Group’s call for the immediate lifting of sanctions imposed on Syria.

Al-Sunni condemned the Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, calling on the Security Council to pressure Israel to halt its provocative actions in Syria, stressing that Syria’s territorial integrity and respect for its sovereignty are not subject to compromise.

The Arab Group on the UN Security Council welcomed the formation of the new Syrian government and its support for the establishment of a comprehensive and sustainable political process.

Basma Qaddour