merrion street

On 12 July, the Security Council adopted a resolution extending the mandate for the UN’s cross border humanitarian operation between Türkiye and North-West Syria. This operation provides vital support for over 4 million people in North West Syria. Ireland and Norway led negotiations on Resolution 2642, which extends the mandate of the operation for six months, until 10 January 2023 Speaking after the adoption of Resolution 2642, Minister Coveney said: “Ensuring the delivery of humanitarian assistance to people in Syria has been one of Ireland’s top priorities as an elected member of the UN Security Council. I visited the UN’s humanitarian operation at Bab al-Hawa for the second time last month, with Norwegian Foreign Minister Huitfeldt. In conversations with UN officials and humanitarian workers, I heard again about the critical importance of this operation for over 4 million people in North West Syria, and saw first-hand the dedication and professionalism of the staff working there.” Minister Coveney added: “Since joining the Security Council in January 2021, Ireland and Norway have led efforts to extend the mandate for the cross border operation. These have been incredibly challenging negotiations. Throughout, we have had one overarching focus and objective – to ensure that humanitarian aid can continue to reach all people in need in Syria. I’m pleased that, through relentless determination, we have been able to get this Resolution over the line, and that the vital work of the UN’s cross border operation can continue.”ENDS