Syrian Vice Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad Visited India

The Syrian Vice Foreign Minister (VFM), Faisal Mekdad, visited India from 31 July to 2 August, 2011.  He called on the External Affairs Minister (EAM) and also met the Minister of State for External Affairs, E. Ahamed (MOS).

VFM briefed EAM about the prevailing situation in Syria, causes for violence in his country, reforms proposed by Syrian President Bashar Al Assad, details of national dialogue between the Syrian government and the opposition groups, as well as, other issues related to public protests in Syria.

EAM expressed concern on the recent escalation of violence. He urged the Government of Syria to exercise restraint, abjure violence and expedite the implementation of political reforms taking into account the aspirations of the people of Syria. MOS also reiterated the same during his meeting with the Syrian Vice Foreign Minister.