United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Damascus on Saturday morning, marking the first official visit by a serving UN chief to Syria in 17 years, according to the state news agency and UN officials. The trip sets the stage for high-level meetings with Syria’s leadership, including President Ahmed al-Sharaa, as the country attempts to rebuild international ties following the ouster of long-serving leader Bashar al-Assad.
Diplomatic Milestone: UN Chief Meets Syrian Leadership
Guterres touched down at Damascus international airport, where Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and other officials greeted his delegation, according to state media reports. During his multi-day itinerary, the UN secretary-general will hold formal talks with al-Sharaa, al-Shaibani, and various representatives of Syrian civil society.
This visit represents a significant diplomatic shift. Al-Sharaa took power following the fall of al-Assad’s government and remained under UN Security Council sanctions until last year. According to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres plans to use the platform to emphasize recovery efforts and lay foundations for a stable, inclusive future for all Syrians.
Ceasefire Monitoring and Field Inspections in the Golan Heights
Beyond political talks in the capital, Guterres scheduled a field tour to evaluate the operations of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). Stationed in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, the peacekeeping force monitors compliance with the ceasefire agreement between Syria and Israel.
Security remains a pressing concern during the high-profile visit. Just weeks prior to the UN chief’s arrival, two explosive devices detonated near a Damascus hotel housing French President Emmanuel Macron, marking the first visit by a European Union head of state since the 2024 transition of power. Syrian authorities stated they dismantled the responsible cell and arrested suspects tied to the ISIL (ISIS) group.
Did you know?
The last official visit to Syria by a serving UN Secretary-General took place in 2009, two years before the outbreak of the country’s 14-year civil war.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is visiting Syria on behalf of the United Nations?
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Damascus for a multi-day official visit, marking the first time a serving UN chief has traveled to the country since 2009.
Who is President Ahmed al-Sharaa?
Ahmed al-Sharaa is the Syrian president who took power following the 2024 ouster of Bashar al-Assad. He was formerly an al-Qaeda commander and remained under UN Security Council sanctions until the previous year.
What is the purpose of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) tour?
Guterres is inspecting UNDOF in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights to review ongoing efforts to monitor commitments under the ceasefire agreement with Israel.
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