Positive signals from Syrian opposition

Arabic version of the Press release

 

A range of Syrian opposition groups, including the Syrian National Council, reached agreement at the weekend on the formation of a broad coalition against President Assad. 

“The Syrian opposition will now be able to promote the people’s demand for democratic change more effectively,” said Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide. 

The National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces will seek to unite both civilian and military opposition groups in Syria. Its leadership council is made up of 60 representatives from the whole political spectrum, including the networks of activists who have been demonstrating widely for democratic change in Syria. The opposition will now intensify its efforts to bring the various factions together behind a joint vision for the country that can win international support.  

“In order to bring about a transition to democracy, the opposition needs broadly supported leadership that can provide stability and spearhead the difficult political process the country faces,” said Mr Eide. 

Norway has had a dialogue with leading actors in the Syrian opposition, and has indicated its support for a broad, representative coalition. 

“A united opposition will increase the pressure on President Assad to step down and help to pave the way for a political solution,” said Mr Eide.