Photo courtesy of Anadolu
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Syria on Saturday, marking the first visit by a UN chief to the country in more than 15 years.
Guterres described the trip as a mission of solidarity and urged the international community to continue supporting the Syrian people during what he called a critical period for the country.
During his visit to Damascus, the UN chief met with Syrian President Ahmad al Sharaa at the People’s Palace to discuss developments in the country.
He was welcomed at Damascus International Airport by Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani before proceeding with his official engagements.
Guterres also visited the historic Umayyad Mosque and toured the Old Quarter of Damascus, accompanied by Syria’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Ibrahim Olabi.
Syrian state media reported that talks between Guterres and al Sharaa began shortly after the UN chief arrived in the capital.
The visit is scheduled to last three days and comes as Syria continues to seek international support following years of conflict.
Ban Ki-moon was the last UN secretary-general to visit Syria, making his trip to the country in 2009.
