South Africa is concerned about the situation in Syria

• South Africa expresses concern at the high number of deaths brought about by the violence in Syria over the past two days. We deeply regret all loss of life and remain concerned about the possible humanitarian impact of the violence.
  
  
• South Africa condemns all forms of violence, including the use of force against unarmed civilians, as well as hostility against security forces and sectarian violence.

• We call for an immediate end to the violence and urge all sides to act with the utmost restraint, respect for human rights and international humanitarian law, and to refrain from reprisals.
  
  
• It is our belief that the only solution to the current crisis is through a Syrian-led political process that is inclusive, with the aim of effectively addressing the legitimate aspirations and concerns of the population which will allow for the full exercise of fundamental freedoms, including that of expression and peaceful assembly.
  
  
• We would like to call on the Syrian authorities to comply with their international obligations under human rights and humanitarian law and to launch a credible and impartial investigation into the violence in Syria. 
  
  
• We appreciate the actions already taken by the Syrian Government in launching dialogue as well as the reform measures already announced.  However, it is essential for the Syrian Government to continue the process of dialogue and implement the reforms.

For more information: Clayson Monyela at 082 884 5974

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)

OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria

01 August 2011