New York, 27 August 2026 As delivered Madam President, I thank Deputy Special Envoy Cordone for his continued efforts to advocate for and support the people of Syria. Last week, I was in Syria and had the opportunity to travel to Deir ez-Zor, Ar-Raqqa, Aleppo and Idleb and met with communities, humanitarian partners and authorities. My central message is simple: Syria is at a pivotal moment, and Syrians are hopeful for a stable and prosperous future. After years of conflict, displacement and economic decline, there are encouraging signs of revival. More Syrians are returning home. Agricultural production is improving, with reports suggesting that this year's wheat harvest could allow Syria to achieve seasonal self-sufficiency. Energy and transport networks are gradually recovering. Commercial activity is increasing. And humanitarian access remains broadly improved compared with previous years. These developments matter because they offer something Syrians have lacked for too long: hope that recovery is possible. The government remains steadfast in consolidating the fragile stability into sustainable development and economic growth. The international community must seize this opportunity and support the aspirations of the Syrian people. But optimism must be tempered by realism. Humanitarian needs still remain immense. Millions of people still struggle to access healthcare, food, clean water, education and livelihoods. And the gap between needs and available resources is growing. Syria is experiencing the largest voluntary return movement in the region in over a decade. Nearly 2 million internally displaced people and more than 1.7 million refugees have returned to their communities since December 2024. But return does not mean the end of humanitarian need. For many families, it is the beginning of another struggle of rebuilding their lives. Homes remain damaged or destroyed. Basic services are struggling to absorb rapidly growing populations. Schools, hospitals and w
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