Catherine Ashton appalled at violence in Syria

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 1 February 2012

A 34/12

Statement by High Representative Catherine Ashton,

on efforts to end the violence in Syria

The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President

of the Commission, made today the following statement:

"I am appalled by the situation in Syria, where the regime continues its ruthless and outrageous

campaign of repression against the Syrian people. Since the beginning of the uprising, I have

consistently repeated the EU's call for an immediate end to violence.

The Arab League has demonstrated important leadership in the Syrian crisis. I have underlined our

strong support to the Arab League's efforts, which are focused on ending the crisis, upholding the

rights of the Syrian people and restoring peace. Yesterday, the Secretary General of the Arab

League and the Prime Minister of Qatar addressed the UN Security Council to seek the support of

the international community for a political solution to this crisis, leading to a peaceful, democratic

transition in Syria.

The EU has been leading international calls for strong UN action. The latest draft resolution tabled

by Morocco on 27 January aims at backing Arab League calls for an inclusive, Syrian-led political

process conducted in an environment free from violence, fear, intimidation and extremism. The time

has come for all members of the UNSC to stand by the Syrian people. As negotiations in New York

continue, I call once again on all members of the Security Council to assume their responsibilities

and act without further delay."

____________________

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]

Sebastien Brabant +32 498 986 433 - [email protected]

[email protected]

www.eeas.europa.eu

EN

بيان الممثلة العليا كاثرين أشتون حول جهود إنهاء العنف في سورية، يدين حملة القمع الوحشية للنظام ويدعم جهود الجامعة العربية.