UNOPS Plans to Expand Syria Operations Alongside Humanitarian Response

UNOPS Announces Expanded Presence in Syria

Jorge Moreira da Silva, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS), announced that the office intends to expand its operations in Syria with the aim of supporting local communities and contributing to a more stable and prosperous future. In a post published on the platform X on Monday, da Silva described Syria as standing at a "critical crossroads" after years of suffering and destruction.

Areas of Field Operations

Da Silva outlined the key areas in which UNOPS is currently active and plans to scale up, including:

• Supplying medical equipment to health facilities
• Providing sustainable energy solutions for schools and hospitals
• Contributing to demining operations
• Implementing long-term development projects in partnership with local and international partners

This expansion reflects a dual-track strategy that addresses both immediate humanitarian needs and longer-term sustainable development goals simultaneously.

Guterres Calls on the International Community

Da Silva's statements came alongside a broader appeal by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who called on the international community to intensify its support for Syria and mobilize the resources needed for the country's rebuilding. Guterres stated that persuading member states of the necessity of supporting Syria at this critical juncture is among his top priorities.

Guterres on Sanctions Relief

In an interview with Syrian News Channel, Guterres stressed the importance of lifting some of the sanctions imposed on Syria and providing tangible financial support to the Syrian government. He stated that the international community has an obligation to support Syria, adding that the country is moving in the right direction despite the challenges it continues to face.