India seeks political solution to crisis in Syria

Washington, Feb 14: Voicing concern over the present situation in Syria, India has sought a "peaceful and inclusive political process" to address the grievances of the people of the country.

"India is deeply concerned with the present situation in Syria that has resulted in the deaths of thousands of civilians and security forces personnel over the last eleven months," said Vinay Kumar, the Acting Permanent Representative of India at the United Nations.

"The problem in Syria being primarily political in nature, India has, from the beginning of the protests, called for a peaceful and inclusive political process to address the grievances of all sections of Syrian society," Kumar said addressing a meeting of the UN General Assembly.

"We strongly condemn all violence, irrespective of whoever the perpetrators are. We also condemn all violations of human rights. India holds the rights of expression and peaceful assembly among the fundamental values that should be respected, while ensuring stability and security of the society," he said.

Kumar noted that India was firmly of the view that a political process for resolution of the present crisis should be led by the Syrians themselves,

New Delhi believes that the main role of the international community is to facilitate engagement of the Syrian Government with all sections of Syrian society for an inclusive political process, taking into account the legitimate aspirations of all Syrians while ensuring respect for the country's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, he said.

PTI