President of the Republic on the Syrian crisis

Ljubljana, 26.2.2012  |  press release

The Slovenian President, Dr Danilo Türk, today sent a letter concerning the Syrian crisis to Kofi Annan, the UN-Arab League envoy to Syria. The events of recent days have laid bare the complexity of the situation. Attacks on civilians have resulted in new and heavy casualties. In his letter President Türk emphasised the importance of Mr Annan's mission for a comprehensive political dialogue between the Syrian Government and all the elements of the Syrian opposition. Putting an end to the violence and ensuring the provision of humanitarian assistance is of equal importance and even greater urgency.

President Türk proposed an international visit to the city of Homs in order to establish a basis for the humanitarian operations needed in Syria. In his view, it is of the utmost importance that the international community starts to speak with one voice. It is very encouraging that Kofi Annan's mission has gained the broadest possible support. The European Union should give the mission its full political backing and, where needed, practical assistance as well. The forthcoming meeting of the EU's foreign ministers will be an excellent opportunity to express that support.