Statement by the Permanent Representative of Greece, Ambassador P. Stournaras, during the interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic (18.3.2022)

"Greece aligns with the EU Statement, and thanks the Commission of Inquiry for their important work and reports. Greece fully supports the mandate of the CoI.

The situation the report describes continues to shock, eleven years into the conflict. Killings, indiscriminate attacks, use of siege tactics, seizing and occupying of displaced civilians’ private property continue to be the daily reality that Syrians must face, with civilians still bearing the brunt.

We join the CoI's call for accountability for all international humanitarian law violations and international human rights law violations and abuses, be they committed by the Syrian authorities, non-state actors such as the Syrian National Army, or by any of the other parties to the conflict.

We agree that Turkey remains bound by applicable human rights obligations vis-à-vis all individuals present in areas under its effective control. Where Turkish forces fail to intervene to stop such violations when made aware of them, they may violate the above-mentioned obligations

Greece supports the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2585, and calls for an immediate, permanent and nation-wide ceasefire. We reiterate our support for Special Envoy Pedersen’s efforts and his proposal for a step-for-step approach.

Mr Chair,

We welcome the increased consideration of child recruitment in your report. Accountability must extend to these practices, too."