Peacekeeping chief details new reduced format of UN mission in Syria
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Hervé Ladsous and General Gaye speak to the press
The UN Mission in Syria (UNSMIS) is operating at a reduced level, the head of UN peacekeeping told journalists in Damascus on Wednesday.
Hervé Ladsous reported that approximately half of the 278 unarmed military observers have returned to their home countries.
UNSMIS had suspended activities in June due to intensification of the armed violence in Syria. The UN Security Council last week extended its mandate for a final period of 30 days.
Ladsous said he spoke about the new mandate with government authorities.
"And I highlighted the fact that the resolution of the Security Council voted upon last Friday does highlight the fact that for the Council to reconsider its decision to renew the mandate of UNSMIS for a final period of 30 days, there would need to be very specific and sustainable progress on the level of violence which should subside substantially and on the use of heavy weapons." (Duration: 39″)
Ladsous also introduced the new head of UNSMIS, Lieutenant General Babacar Gaye from Senegal, who takes over from Major General Robert Mood of Norway.
