U.N. Special Envoy for Syria Pedersen: Despite gross divisions, we seek to achieve a “consensual vision” that the common interest requires

NEW YORK — U.N. Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen has called on the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) to press ahead with the political process in Syria.

Pedersen explained that the last session of the Constitutional Committee Small Body witnessed major differences among the participants and there were moments of tension.

Pedersen also touched on the political and humanitarian developments in Syria. “We still see the possibility of reaching a common ground in the 5th round,” Pedersen added, confirming that the basic constitutional principles will be focused on during the next round of Constitutional Committee talks.

“By 2021, we look forward to a broader and deeper political process, a ceasefire throughout the country, effective efforts to draft the constitution, and greater efforts to build confidence and progress,” he continued.

Achieving the conditions of the political process requires a new form of cooperation, with the participation of all the main parties, said Pedersen.

He also indicated that it has been difficult to reach a consensus on measures to ensure constructive diplomacy.

“Despite gross divisions in Syria, we will continue to search, with the Syrian parties, for new ways to achieve a consensual vision that the common interest requires,” Pedersen declared.