'Remove all sanctions immediately': UN chief Guterres sends big message after Syria visit

Damascus: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday urged the international community to remove all sanctions imposed on Syria during the rule of former President Bashar al-Assad, as he concluded his visit to the country.

Speaking in Damascus after a two-day visit, Guterres welcomed steps that had already eased some sanctions but said all remaining restrictions should be lifted to create opportunities for economic recovery.

"I welcome steps that have eased sanctions, and opening new possibilities for economic recovery, but all these sanctions must be removed immediately," Guterres said.

Guterres visits Sednaya Prison

During his visit, Guterres toured Sednaya Prison near Damascus, a facility that became widely known over allegations of torture, forced disappearances and killings during Assad's rule.

The UN chief described the prison as a symbol of repression under the former government and highlighted the conditions faced by detainees.

He said Syria now faces an opportunity to recover from conflict and build a more stable and inclusive future.

Talks with Syrian leadership

During his visit, Guterres met Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani. The UN chief reaffirmed support for Syria's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity while calling for international support for the country's recovery process.

He also visited Damascus' historic sites, including the Umayyad Mosque and the Old City.

The visit came after opposition forces removed Bashar al-Assad's government on December 8, 2024, ending more than five decades of Baath Party rule under the Assad family.

The United Nations has continued to call for stability, reconstruction efforts and an inclusive political process in Syria following the change in leadership.

With AFP inputs