President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC), Salem Al-Meslet, held a meeting with the Italian envoy to Syria, Stefano Ravagnan, to discuss the latest political and field developments in Syria. Al-Meslet was accompanied by Vice President Abdulahad Astepho and member of the political committee, Muhammed Yahya Maktabi.
The SOC’s delegation engaged in a discussion with the Italian envoy regarding the situation of Syrian refugees and displaced persons. They emphasized to Mr. Ravagnan that the safe return of refugees is not feasible under the presence of the Assad regime, due to its continued brutal treatment of returning Syrians. Furthermore, they highlighted that many refugees who were forcibly deported from Lebanon have been subjected to arrest, persecution, and torture.
During the meeting, Al-Meslet emphasized that the ongoing suffering of the Syrian people is a direct result of the Assad regime and its allies. He expressed his concern about the regime’s persistent violations over the course of 12 years without substantial international efforts to hold it accountable.
Al-Meslet asserted that the Assad regime has consistently obstructed the political process since the early years of the revolution, resorting instead to brutal military operations that have resulted in the destruction of the country and the loss of lives and displacement of millions of Syrians.
Highlighting the importance of achieving stability in Syria, Al-Meslet emphasized the need for a political transition in accordance with UN Resolution 2254. He underlined that the stability of Syria would have a positive impact on numerous countries worldwide, alleviating their own crises
Al-Meslet further emphasized the necessity for action from European countries and the United States to support the political process and increase their attention to the Syrian crisis. This support is vital to fulfilling the aspirations of the Syrian people, who yearn for peace, democracy, and a decent life.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)