Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on violent repressions in Syria

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 23 April 2011

A 162/11

Statement by the High Representative, Catherine Ashton,

on violent repressions in Syria

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

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

"I condemn the use of brutal force against demonstrators across Syria, which is resulting in high

numbers of victims. The Syrian authorities must immediately stop their violent response and fully

respect citizens' right to peaceful demonstrations.

I deeply regret the death of many protesters on Friday 21 April, and offer my condolences to their

families. The killings are appalling and intolerable. All those responsible for these crimes must be

brought to justice and held accountable for their actions.

I noted President Assad's announcement of three decrees on Thursday 20 April, related to the lifting

of the state of emergency, abolition of the Higher State Security Court and a right to peaceful

protests. However, credible reform can only be measured by real improvements on the ground.

I call on the Syrian government to carry out profound political reforms, starting with the respect

for basic rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. It is essential that these reforms begin

now and follow a concrete timetable.

I reiterate that the EU stands ready to support, once launched, a genuine reform process in Syria.

That process can only be made possible by putting an immediate end to all repressive violence."

____________________

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 استخدام القوة الوحشية ضد المتظاهرين في أنحاء سورية، ويطالب السلطات بوقف ردها العنيف واحترام حق التظاهر السلمي.