Press Releases

1. The Government of Japan is concerned that the path of direct talks between the Government of Syria and opposition groups that was opened under the framework of the Geneva II Conference in January this year will be closed as a result of Syria’s presidential election, which is scheduled for June 3 this year.

2. To stabilize the situation in Syria, finding a political resolution to problems via the full implementation of the Geneva Communique of June 30, 2012 is vital. The Communique includes 1) the establishment of a transitional governing body that will be formed on the basis of mutual consent of the Syrian government, the opposition and other groups; 2) the drafting of a constitution and its approval via a national referendum; and 3) the holding of free and fair multi-party elections.

3. The Government of Japan strongly hopes direct talks by all concerned parties resumes promptly and the situation is stabilized via dialogue, toward the implementation of the Geneva Communique.