In a meeting held at the Syrian Opposition Coalition’s (SOC) headquarters in Istanbul on Wednesday, President Hadi Al-Bahra engaged in discussions with Dutch Ambassador Gijs Gerlag and Dutch special advisor for Syria, Leonard Hogerbrugge. The focus of the talks centered on the recent developments in the political process, hindered by the obstruction of the Syrian regime and its allies. The participants explored avenues to undertake substantial measures regarding accountability for war criminals.
The meeting, attended by SOC’s Vice Presidents Abdel Majeed Barakat and Dima Moussa, along with Coordinator of the Foreign Relations Department Abdulahad Astepho, addressed the evolving political situation in Syria and its repercussions on regional and international dynamics. Al-Bahra emphasized the need for the United Nations to reclaim an active role in Syria’s political process in alignment with Security Council Resolution 2254. He urged prioritizing Syria and taking decisive action to revive the political process, implementing crucial UN resolutions, notably Resolutions 2118 and 2254.
Al-Bahra provided insights into conditions in liberated areas, highlighting recent SOC recent engagements with various societal segments in northern Syria. He underscored the imperative to enhance security, stability, and basic infrastructure rehabilitation, including drinking water networks and irrigation systems. Al-Bahra called for stepping up support to the Syrian interim government, emphasizing the importance of improving services and creating a conducive environment for investment to foster sustainable development and employment opportunities, deterring migration.
Vice President Moussa detailed the Syrian Women’s Authority’s initiatives, focusing on empowering Syrian women across political, economic, social, and cultural domains. Vice President Barakat raised concerns about Iranian influence in Syria, emphasizing its impact on economic and social resources and the ensuing instability in the region.
Astepho highlighted the detrimental effects of the stagnation in Syria’s political process at both regional and international levels, addressing complexities and challenges within international and regional positions regarding the Syrian crisis.
The Dutch delegation reaffirmed their government’s unwavering support for the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2254. They underscored their commitment to pursuing accountability and justice in Syria, referencing the joint lawsuit filed with Canada at the International Court of Justice against the Assad regime for violating the Convention against Torture. Additionally, the delegation expressed support for the special UN envoy’s efforts in implementing UN resolutions on Syria.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
