BRUSSELS
In their decisions published after an EU summit on Friday, EU leaders stressed that the European Council was appalled by the deterioration of the situation in Syria.
"We endorse the conclusions adopted by the Council on 15 October and the additional restrictive measures against the Syrian regime and its supporters. We fully support the efforts of Lakhdar Brahimi in finding a political solution to the Syrian crisis. All key actors, notably those in the region and all members of the United Nations Security Council, should uphold their responsibilities and lend their support to the Joint Representative's endeavours," the EU leaders stressed.
"The EU is committed to working closely and comprehensively with international partners to ensure rapid support to Syria once transition takes place. The EU also commits to strengthening its support in building the capacity of civil society to participate in a future Syria. All opposition groups should agree on a set of shared principles in order to achieve an inclusive, orderly and peaceful transition," the EU leaders emphasized.
"The European Council strongly condemns the shelling by Syrian forces of Turkish territory and calls on all to prevent escalation and on the Syrian authorities to fully respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all neighbouring countries. The EU will continue to provide humanitarian assistance and calls on all donors to increase their contributions to the latest UN appeals. The European Council urges all parties to respect international humanitarian law (including the inviolability of all medical facilities, medical personnel and vehicles)," the EU leaders said.
"All parties should put an end to all forms of violence, take special measures to protect all vulnerable groups, allow full and safe access for the delivery of humanitarian aid in all parts of the country. Those responsible for violations of international human rights law must be held accountable," the EU leaders also said.
