Developments in Syria and Libya: Talks between Frattini and Hague
ROME, Italy, August 29, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ — Foreign Minister Franco Frattini had a long and cordial phone conversation this afternoon with the British Foreign Minister, William Hague. The two ministers were able to exchange views on developments in the situation in Libya and in Syria.
On Libya, both ministers expressed concern over the difficult humanitarian situation in various parts of the country, including Tripoli. They agreed on the need for rapid action by the United Nations to help those elements of the population most affected. They also concurred on the priority need to reach rapid agreement on “unfreezing” Libyan assets abroad to enable the country’s economy to recover. Both ministers hope that in the coming week (starting 29 August) agreement will be reached on a United Nations Resolution. They also discussed the importance of a rapid and if possible coordinated re-opening of European embassies in Tripoli. As Frattini reiterated, Italy, like Great Britain, is ready to open its embassy and hopes to see other countries do the same.
On Syria, Frattini and Hague agreed in their analysis of the unacceptable nature of the violent repression of the civilian population. They both hoped that the UN Security Council would approve, as soon as possible, a new resolution that includes the decision to impose sanctions against the regime.
Lastly, the two Foreign Ministers also exchanged views on the Israeli-Palestinian question, especially as regards the initiative on the recognition of the Palestinian state. They agreed to liaise closely on this issue in the run-up to the UN General Assembly.
SOURCE
Italy – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
