Statement by High Representative Catherine Ashton on the situation in Syria

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 26 March 2011

A 126/11

Statement by High Representative Catherine Ashton

on the situation in Syria

Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and

Vice-President of the Commission, made the following statement today:

"I am appalled and extremely concerned by the situation in Syria. Despite the latest announcement

of improved political freedoms and restraint, violent repression of demonstrators has continued in

several cities. I strongly condemn the brutal repression, including the totally unacceptable use of

violence and live ammunition, which must cease now.

I urge the authorities to exercise the utmost restraint across the country and to meet the legitimate

demands and aspirations of the people with dialogue and urgent political and socio-economic

reforms. The state of emergency must be lifted and political prisoners and human rights defenders

must be released without delay. Human rights and fundamental freedoms must be respected and

protected by the authorities and security forces.”

____________________

P R E S S

FOR FURTHER DETAILS:

Michael Mann +32 498 999 780 - +32 2 299 97 80 - [email protected]

Maja Kocijancic +32 498 984 425 - +32 2 298 65 70 - [email protected]

[email protected]

www.eeas.europa.eu

EN

بيان من الممثلة العليا كاثرين أشتون تعبّر فيه عن صدمتها من استمرار القمع العنيف للمتظاهرين في عدة مدن سورية رغم إعلانات الإصلاح، وتدين استخدام القوة.