UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, has announced his resignation after more than six-and-a-half years in the role, the United Nations said on Friday.
According to a UN statement, the Norwegian informed UN Secretary -General António Guterres of his decision to step down for personal reasons and the secretary general accepted his request.
Pedersen will leave his post in the near future but will “remain fully engaged” in his duties until his final day, the statement said.
Following the removal of long-time Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Pedersen was tasked with supporting state institutions under the Islamist-led transitional government and facilitating discussions on a new constitution under a UN resolution.
In March, he expressed deep concern over clashes between security forces and al-Assad loyalists, calling for the protection of civilians.
The envoy mediated political processes aimed at a peaceful resolution to the Syrian conflict, coordinated humanitarian aid, and promoted international support for reconstruction.
Pedersen told the UN Security Council that “today, Syria and the Syrian people have a new dawn, and we must ensure that this becomes a bright day.They deserve this so much.”
He expressed profound gratitude to the Syrian population for its courage and humanity over the years.
NAN