Brussels, 18/03/2013 (Agence Europe) - On Saturday 16 March, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton seemed cautious about lifting the arms embargo, which has been called for by France and the United Kingdom. Ashton said the consequences of the lifting the embargo should be studied carefully. “Before taking this decision, we have to work through - very carefully - the best understanding that we can have of what the consequences would be”, she said, wondering if bringing arms would involve others doing the same, what Bashar al-Assad's response might be, and if it would prevent people from being killed or if this would kill people faster. Ashton also highlighted the need to consult partners such as the special representative for Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi, and the president of the national coalition, Sheikh Muaz al-Khatib, who are trying to set up a political dialogue “because we must be sure that what we do does not make (their task) more difficult”.
Ashton reiterated that their goal is to stop the “massacre”, to bring about the departure of Assad and a new government. “The question is to know how to do this.” She said that in any event there is always a need for a political process. (CG/transl.fl)