Security Council paralysed over Syria

“It is regrettable that the UN Security Council has not reached agreement on a resolution on Syria,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre.

On Thursday, Russia and China vetoed a Security Council resolution that would have condemned the use of violence in Syria, called for compliance with Kofi Annan’s six-point peace plan, and allowed for sanctions against the regime. Eleven members of the Security Council voted in favour of the resolution, while two countries, Pakistan and South Africa, abstained.

The civil war in Syria continues to rage and is gaining momentum; there is now heavy fighting in Damascus itself. This is the third time in nine months that Russia and China have vetoed resolutions on Syria in the Security Council.

“The civil war in Syria is continuing to escalate, despite the diplomatic efforts. The two countries that vetoed the Security Council resolution have a particular responsibility for the current deadlock,” Mr Støre said. 

Mr Støre also emphasised the importance of being able to provide humanitarian assistance to refugees and others in need.