**Guterres Arrives in Syria for Historic UN Visit After 17 Years**
**Damascus, Syria** – United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Syria on Saturday, marking the first official visit by a serving UN chief to the country in 17 years. His arrival at Damascus International Airport was met by Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, according to the Syrian state news agency.
Guterres's visit comes at a significant time for Syria, as it follows a prolonged period of civil conflict that has lasted for over 14 years. This trip is particularly notable as it is the first by a UN Secretary-General since 2009, prior to the outbreak of the civil war. The visit is seen as a diplomatic milestone for Syria, especially under the leadership of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has been working to re-establish international relations since he took power after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in 2024.
During his time in Syria, Guterres is scheduled to meet with President al-Sharaa, as well as other government officials and representatives from Syrian civil society. The discussions are expected to focus on the current state of the country and the potential for recovery and rebuilding after years of conflict.
One of the key components of Guterres's agenda is a field tour to inspect the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), which is stationed in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights. This force plays a crucial role in monitoring the ceasefire agreement with Israel, and the visit underscores the UN's ongoing commitment to peace and stability in the region.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated that Guterres aims to emphasize the opportunity for Syria to not only recover from the conflict but also to establish a more stable, inclusive, and prosperous future for all its citizens. The Secretary-General is expected to address Syria's new parliament on Monday, further highlighting the UN's interest in the country's political developments.
The visit comes in the wake of recent security concerns in Damascus, including two bomb explosions near a hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron had stayed. Syrian authorities reported that they have identified and apprehended suspects connected to the Islamic State (ISIL) group in relation to these attacks.
Guterres's visit is anticipated to last several days, although the full details of his itinerary have not been disclosed. His presence in Syria signifies a renewed focus on the country's situation and the UN's role in facilitating dialogue and support for the Syrian people.