Statement by EU High Representative, Catherine Ashton on the ongoing violence and necessity for credible reform in Syria

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 6 June 2011

A 221/11

Statement by the High Representative, Catherine Ashton on

the ongoing violence and necessity for credible reform in Syria

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

Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"I condemn the continued brutality and violence in Syria. I deplore the increasing loss of life caused

by the Syrian authorities' policy of repression rather than dialogue. I am gravely concerned about

reports of torture and other violence being used against family members, including children, as a

means to silence activists. I urge the Syrian leadership to fulfil its commitments and responsibilities

to halt violence and intimidation against the Syrian people.

I note the announcement of a presidential amnesty for political prisoners. I reiterate that the EU

will assess the sincerity of the measures taken by the Syrian authorities by the extent of their

implementation which is the only way to make announced reforms credible. I emphasise that all

those detained in connection with the protests must be released without delay.

I again call on the Syrian authorities to meet all their human rights obligations and to engage in

genuine and inclusive dialogue and fundamental reforms in response to the demands of the Syrian

people."

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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 الممثلة العليا كاثرين أشتون يدين استمرار الوحشية والعنف في سورية ويؤكد ضرورة الإصلاح الجدي.