Iwill make four points today.

First, this month’s indirect parliamentary elections across Syria marked an important milestone. We welcome efforts by the Syrian government to maintain momentum in Syria’s political transition.

Ahead of the People’s Assembly next month, we encourage the Government to ensure the remaining direct appointments reflect the broadest possible representation within the legislature, and to set out clear timelines for postponed elections in Raqqa, Hassakeh and Suwayda.

Political pluralism is essential to establishing a more stable, peaceful Syria.

Second, we were deeply concerned by the recent escalation of violence in the Kurdish-majority neighbourhoods in Aleppo. Military confrontation is in no one’s interest.

We welcome the ceasefire agreement reached between

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