France takes positive note of the organization of a National Dialogue Conference in Damascus on February 24 and 25. This constitutes the first step toward establishing a culture of dialogue for all Syrians.
France notes the announcement of plans to create a representative legislative council, adopt a constitutional declaration for the transition period, and create a constitutional committee tasked with drafting the future constitution.
France recalls its commitment to the principles outlined in the final statement released at the conference's conclusion: respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights, the genuine participation of women in all fields, the grounding of citizenship in the rejection of all forms of discrimination, the establishment of transitional justice, the promotion of the peaceful coexistence of all segments of Syrian society, and the development of political participation.
France calls for the national dialogue to continue over the long term and to involve representatives from all segments of Syrian society, without exception.
France recalls its support for a transition process that fully meets the Syrian people's aspirations for freedom and dignity and that will make it possible to build a free, united, sovereign, stable, inclusive Syria that is fully integrated into its regional environment and the international community.
France will be fully involved in the reconstruction of the Syrian economy and, with this in mind, recalls the EU member states' February 24th decision to suspend sanctions weighing on key economic sectors, in particular, energy, transportation and financial transactions.
France reiterates its commitment to the principles outlined in the joint statement adopted at the conclusion of the February 13th Paris Conference on Syria.