Syria warns EU not to interfere

Dubai Syria yesterday warned against foreign interference in its handling of the pro-democracy uprising and singled out France, which is pressing the UN Security Council to act.

"We can reach a consensus despite opposing points of view," Foreign Minister Walid Mua'alem told a Damascus press conference. "No one outside [Syria] can impose their point of view on us."

While not directly accusing neighbouring Turkey of meddling, Mua'alem hinted that Ankara should "reconsider its position".

"We say to those in Europe who are criticising us that they should stop interfering in Syrian affairs and sowing trouble in order to apply plans contrary to Syrian national interests." Mua'alem accused France of pursuing a "colonialist agenda under the guise of human rights" and said French Foreign Minister Alain Juppe had colonial "illusions".

He also likened to "war" European Union sanctions. EU states reached a political agreement yesterday to extend sanctions against Syria.

See also Page 19