BEIRUT: The Syrian opposition has called for the resumption of United Nations-sponsored talks with President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, as the Syrian leader returns to the Arab fold after years of isolation.
In a statement on Sunday, the Syrian Negotiation Commission (SNC) urged for the revival of direct negotiations with a specific agenda and timetable, citing the current international, regional, and Syrian conditions as favorable. The talks hit a deadlock in 2018 over Assad’s role in the political transition, and subsequent UN-brokered rounds aiming to establish a new constitution have failed.
The SNC, which includes representatives from the Syrian National Coalition, the main political opposition alliance, has been a key delegation in previous Geneva talks. Following a two-day meeting in Switzerland, the SNC appealed to “brotherly and friendly countries” to support the UN’s efforts in achieving a comprehensive political solution.
The statement emphasized the need for a solution aligned with UN Security Council resolution 2254, which outlines a roadmap for a political transition in Syria. The country’s 12-year-long conflict erupted from Assad’s repression of peaceful anti-government demonstrations, escalating into a deadly war involving foreign powers.
Syrian Opposition Experiences Decline in Momentum
The political opposition has experienced a decline in momentum, losing the support it once enjoyed from regional countries. In a recent summit in Saudi Arabia, regional leaders welcomed Assad back to the Arab League, marking his first appearance since Syria’s suspension in 2011 over its crackdown on protests. Riyadh has restored ties with Damascus, while Turkey has also shown signs of rapprochement with Assad.
UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen has acknowledged the potential for “new diplomatic activity in the region” if seized upon. He emphasized the need for constructive Syrian engagement and collaboration among key regional and international stakeholders, addressing the UN Security Council.
