Syrian FM says Turkey a 'main sponsor' of terrorism in the region during UNGA speech

"There are those who invest in, support and fuel terrorism moving terrorists from one region to another and from one country to another all in the service of their suspicious agendas," Walid al-Moallem told an audience.

"Of course when it comes to sponsors and financiers of terrorism the current Turkish regime reigns supreme. The Turkish regime is one of the main sponsors of terror in Syria and the region.

"It has facilitated the passage of tens of thousands of foreign terrorists into Syria and continues to provide all forms of support to Al-Nusra Front and its affiliated terrorist groups that have massacred Syrians."

In a pre-recorded statement, al-Moallem who is also Deputy Prime Minister was scathing in his criticism of the Turkish government.

"The current Turkish regime has become a rogue, an outlaw regime under international law. Its policies and actions which threaten the security and stability of the whole region must be stopped," al-Moallem said.

"We want a secure and prosperous future free from terrorism, occupation and inhumane sanctions. We want a future that respects international law and promotes dialogue and understanding between nations.

"We need a United Nations that upholds the principles and purposes of its Charter and unequivocally stands against wars and war mongers."

He also called for joint multilateral action to tackle the global pandemic.

"Today's imperative is that we combat this pandemic together through multilateral joint action with deeds and not with words alone, to build a more equal world better equipped to withstand crisis and achieve real sustainable development for all," the foreign minister said.

He went on to add: "I could go on but I think it's clear that the real purpose of the Act is to put pressure on Syrians, their livelihoods and their daily lives.

"It is an inhumane attempt to suffocate Syrians just like George Floyd and others were cruelly suffocated in the United States, and just like Israel suffocates Palestinians on a daily basis."