The government meeting held on August 2, 2025, focused on the pressing issue of Syrian refugees, with Gonzalo Vargas L, the UNHCR Representative to Syria, leading the discussions. The primary agenda centered around the conditions necessary for the safe return of millions of refugees currently displaced due to the ongoing conflict.

Vargas emphasized that while a political resolution in Syria is crucial, it is not sufficient on its own. He pointed out that many refugees will not return unless there are significant improvements in the material conditions within Syria. Key needs highlighted included access to food, education for children, and opportunities for livelihoods. Vargas expressed concern that without these essential improvements, many refugees might choose to remain in host countries like Lebanon and Jordan, despite the challenges they face there.

He warned that the current window of opportunity for facilitating the return of refugees is limited. Vargas urged the international community to act swiftly by increasing humanitarian aid and initiating early recovery activities in Syria. He stressed that failure to do so could result in a catastrophic scenario where refugees lose hope of returning home, leading to a significant missed opportunity for both the refugees and the stability of the region.

The meeting concluded with a call for international support, highlighting that investing in the return of refugees is not only a humanitarian obligation but also beneficial for the stability of the host countries and the broader region. Vargas's insights underscored the urgency of addressing the material needs of refugees to encourage their safe return to Syria.