What the Syrian people desperately need at this time are real solutions to the crisis that is tearing their nation apart.  In this regard, the Secretary-General was disappointed that the speech by President Bashar al Assad on 6 January does not contribute to a solution that could end the terrible suffering of the Syrian people.  The speech rejected the most important element of the Geneva Communiqué of 30 June 2012, namely a political transition and the establishment of a transitional governing body with full executive powers that would include representatives of all Syrians.

The United Nations remains committed to do its utmost, in cooperation with other partners, to alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people inside and outside Syria. The United Nations will also continue to help the people of Syria fulfill their legitimate aspirations for peace, dignity, freedom, justice and democracy in a united and sovereign Syria. 

The Secretary-General reaffirms his long-held view that there is no military solution to the conflict in Syria. The Secretary-General and Joint Special Representative Brahimi have worked and continue to work towards a political solution to the conflict through a political transition that includes the establishment of a transitional Government and the holding of free and fair elections under the auspices of the United Nations.

Now more than ever, it is critically urgent that the international community comes together to assist the Syrian people build, as early as possible in 2013, a new and democratic Syria - one where the rights of all groups and minorities are properly protected.