I explained that we would like to adjust our position on the Syrian question to theirs, as, in our view, they are the decisive factor in our relations with our neighbors, and Syria is unimportant.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
We are not directly involved in Syria. But we will be working with our partners in the European Union and at the United Nations to see if we can persuade the Syrian authorities to go, as I say, more in that direction of respect for democracy and human rights.
The issue with Syria, I think for many of us, has always been about Iran. This is an anchor point for them in terms of regional domination. It means a lot to them. They are all in here.
As the United States Congress considers military intervention in Syria, per President Obama's request, I think it's important to be very honest about what we are considering.
Maybe the future of Syria will not be a presidential system where one person will have all the power, so, the discussion about who should and should not rule Syria will become irrelevant. Let the Syrian people decide.
I think Syria is in a particularly sensitive geopolitical position in terms of the politics of the Middle East.
We, in Syria, our point of view stems from our experience.
It is better for the Arab countries themselves to interfere out of their national, humanitarian, political and military duties and to do what is necessary to stop the bloodshed in Syria.
As far as we are concerned, we Syria have not changed.
I can only say it is not for us to decide who should lead Syria. It is for the Syrians to decide.
What we did say is that it is up to the Syrians themselves to decide how to run the country, how to introduce the reforms, what kind reforms, without any outside interference.