Gilmore calls for Assad to halt violence
The Tánaiste has added his voice to calls for Syrian President Bashar Assaid to end the ongoing violence being perpetrated by his regime or else step down from his position.
Eamon Gilmore was speaking following a two-day meeting of EU foreign ministers in Poland to discuss Syria, Libya and the Middle East.
The Foreign Affairs Minister said the brutal attacks on civilians in Syria over the last few months have seriously undermined the legitimacy of Assad and his regime.
"The basic choice for President Assad is to stop the violence and reform or step down," Mr Gilmore said.
The Tánaiste also welcomed yesterday's announcement by EU foreign ministers to ban Syrian oil imports, which will have a significant economic impact on the regime.
He also pledged Ireland's support for the UN's ongoing efforts to arrive at a new resolution which will broaden the sanctions against the regime, while avoiding the impact that these have on ordinary people.
On Libya, Mr Gilmore reiterated Ireland's belief that the UN should take the lead role in Libya going forward.
