Syria stresses the importance of the item under consideration and condemns al...

Syria stresses the importance of the item under consideration and condemns all forms of sexual violence, particularly in armed conflict. It stresses also the need to put an end to such acts and to bring their perpetrators to justice while avoiding selectivity.

My country has read the report (S/2012/33) of the Secretary-General on conflict-related sexual violence. It has also read the information provided by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict. Syria supports all efforts to end conflict-related sexual violence and to punish perpetrators and end impunity. However, we reject the allegations and claims made in the report with respect to my country, Syria. We request that caution and objectivity be exercised in addressing these important humanitarian issues.