Syrian Coalition to Negotiate Only if Assad Is Out

In his inaugural speech, Khalid Khoja, president-elect of the Syrian Coalition, said that “in this new stage, we will make every effort to demand attention to the plight of the Syrian people, whether in liberated areas, inside Syria or in neighboring countries hosting refugees. Our duty towards the people requires us to work at all levels to start a new phase, one that adheres to the principles of the Syrian revolution.” He also stresses that “the Syrian Coalition will bring attention inside Syrian because that is where this revolution began. They are the very people from which we draw our legitimacy, they are the people who rose demanding freedom and dignity and we will continue to ensure their voices are heard loud and clear. We will also continue to work with those who have given our cause international recognition, and with our friends who stand by our side through thick and thin.” Khoja also said that “we will work with all active revolutionary forces to create a common vision that achieves the goals of the revolution, which will exclude Assad and his cronies from any future role in Syria. We will also actively engage in diplomatic efforts with international and regional parties to amplify the voice for freedom and democracy.” He calls on upon the Syrian people and the revolutionary forces to rally around the leadership of the Syrian Coalition in our next phase, namely the civilian and military councils and FSA commanders, to stand united with one hand and heart to defeat Assad and his murderous regime.” Khoja denies that there are any Egyptian or Russian initiatives for launching a new round of negotiates with the Assad regime. “We have been holding discussions with all Syrian opposition blocs and political trends to find a solution to the conflict. However, we will negotiate the Assad regime only if it brings about real and complete political transition,” he stresses. (Source: Syrian Coalition)