World leaders committed to supporting civilians

Abu Dhabi:  The first meeting of the Working Group on Economic Recovery and Development of the Friends of the Syrian People was held in Abu Dhabi yesterday, with the participation of more than 60 countries and representatives from the Syrian National Council (SNC).

In his opening address, Dr Anwar Mohammad Gargash, in his capacity as UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, welcomed the participants and said that "today's meeting gives a clear message to the Syrian people and to the friends of Syria that there are many reasons to be optimistic about Syria's future despite attempts to spread fear about communal clashes and violence".

Gargash reiterated the international community's commitment to supporting the Syrian people.

The speech was followed by presentations by the UAE, UK, Germany and the European Union. The UAE presentation focused on an efficient and productive economy based on transparency and good governance.

Osama Al Qadi, Chairman of the Economic Bureau of the SNC, introduced its National Economic Vision for the New Syria, which details plans for the country's economic reconstruction and development.