We are monitoring with great concern the escalation of violence in Syria and the continuing bloodshed in the oppression of the uprising with heavy weapons by the regime, even within cities. The violence must stop immediately.
Greece supports the Arab League’s efforts for the Syrian people themselves to find a solution, without external interventions. The months of bloodshed render it imperative that the voice of the Syrian people be heard.
We stand by the beleaguered Syrian people, to whom Greece is linked by deep relations of friendship, trust and mutual respect. We are prepared to participate in international initiatives aimed at a peaceful resolution of the crisis with the goal of a democratic Syria that respects the rights of all citizens, and particularly minorities. We hope that the Security Council, which must play a leading role in managing the crisis, will continue the efforts to reach consensus on this issue.
Greece’s positions have been conveyed to the Syrian Ambassador to Athens by the Foreign Ministry’s Director for Middle East affairs.
February 10, 2012