ROME, (TDI): Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations expressed their readiness to support the establishment of an “inclusive and non-sectarian” government in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad.
In a joint statement, they called for the protection of human rights, especially those of women and minorities, while underscoring the need to hold the Assad regime accountable for its atrocities.
Assad fled Syria after a swift offensive led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group and its allies, marking the end of over five decades of Assad family rule. The G7, which includes Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United States, and Italy, declared their support for the people of Syria after decades of regime-led oppression.
The G7 urged current leaders in Syria to “prevent the collapse of state institutions” and create conditions for the “safe and dignified voluntary return” of all those who were displaced.
They also reiterated their commitment to a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned political transition in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which endorsed a peace process in Syria.
“We stand ready to support a transition process that leads to credible, inclusive, and non-sectarian governance, ensuring respect for the rule of law, universal human rights, women’s rights, the protection of all Syrians, including minorities, and accountability,” the statement said.
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The G7 pledged full support for a future Syrian government that adheres to these principles.
A judicial and human rights committee will be formed to examine the current constitution, which dates back to 2012, and propose amendments. Spokesman Obaida Arnaout confirmed this to AFP, noting that the current constitution does not specify Islam as the state religion.
After HTS and its allies seized Damascus on Sunday, Assad fled into exile. On Tuesday, the group named Mohammed al-Bashir, head of the “Salvation Government” in Idlib, as the country’s transitional prime minister until March 1.
Arnaout stated that a meeting would take place on Tuesday between members of the Salvation Government and former Assad officials to oversee the power transfer.
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The transitional period is expected to last three months, with a focus on preserving state institutions. Arnaout also promised the establishment of the rule of law and vowed to prosecute all individuals responsible for crimes against the Syrian people.
He emphasised that the new government would respect Syria’s religious and cultural diversity, ensuring that freedoms remain protected during the transition.
