Foreign Minister Bob Carr has welcomed the 21 April UNSC Resolution 2043 authorising an expanded UN Supervision Mission in Syria (UNSMIS).

The Resolution, which was passed unanimously, authorises up to 300 military observers to monitor the cease-fire in Syria for an initial period of 90 days. An advance, 30-person observer mission was established under the earlier, unanimous 14 April UNSC Resolution 2042.

"Two unanimous Security Council resolutions show that the international community speaks with one voice on Syria and demonstrates the sense of urgency for achieving a peaceful, inclusive, political resolution to the crisis," Senator Carr said.

Senator Carr urged the Syrian Government to comply with the terms of the Resolution, and to fully implement Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan's six point plan. He called on all parties to honour the cease-fire, which remained fragile.

"Australia fully supports Mr Annan's efforts to bring a peaceful resolution to the situation in Syria, and the cooperation of the Syrian Government is critical to the success of these endeavours," he said.

Senator Carr urged the Syrian Government to make early and substantial progress by implementing the Annan Plan.

Australia has already committed A$11 million for humanitarian relief. The humanitarian needs in Syria underscore the urgency of a durable, inclusive political resolution and a halt to all violence.

Media enquiries

• Minister's office: (02) 6277 7500
• DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555