‘Damascus Platform’ Rejects Foreign Dictates in Political Solution

DAMASCUS, (ST)- Participants in the first meeting of the preparatory committee of ‘Damascus Platform’ for national dialogue have underscored the need to reach a political solution to crisis in Syria based on dialogue among Syrians and to back the Syrian Arab army in fighting terrorism.

 They have also underlined  the importance of the Syrian government’s participation in local national initiatives that call for dialogue, appealing for the formation of a delegation composed of various social and political figures in order to take part in Geneva talks as one national team, according to the official news agency (SANA).

The agency quoted Secretary General of the ‘National Youth Party’ Maher Merhej, who is also a member of the preparatory committee, as saying that the platform seeks to organize dialogue between pro-government figures, opposition ones and civil community to hold comprehensive conference.

“Further meetings are due to be held by the committee in all provinces to find a political solution that satisfies all Syrians and meets their aspirations,” added Merhej during the meeting held Saturday in Damascus under the title ‘Towards Comprehensive National Dialogue’.

On her part, Secretary General of the ‘National Youth Party for Justice and Development’  Berwin Ibrahim asserted the importance of agreement between all spectrums of Syrian society to draw the future of their county. “This necessitates united Syrian national course through internal dialogue to confront all foreign plots.”

Another idea about national reconciliation was raised by Member of Parliament Jansit Qazan, who talked about the important role of women and media outlets in enhancing the principle of reconciliation.

The meeting was attended by representatives of several national parties, political forces, dignitaries, tribal leaders, members of parliament and independent figures.  

On Wednesday, Damascus-based al-Watan newspaper reported that the internal opposition will hold a meeting outside Syria within 15 days, while the comprehensive conference will be held in Damascus by the end of 2016 or the beginning of 2017.

The newspaper clarified that the preparatory committee will coordinate with Russia to hold the conference in Damascus.

Basma Qaddour