Press Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

“Thailand supports the United Nations General Assembly resolution on the situation in Syria”

On 15 May 2013, Thailand voted in favour of the draft resolution of the United Nations General Assembly, “The situation in the Syrian Arab Republic”, under the agenda item on “Prevention of armed conflict”.  The draft resolution was adopted with 107 Member States voting in favour, 12 against and 59 abstaining.

By supporting this resolution, Thailand has joined the international community in expressing deep concern about the deteriorating situation in Syria, which has so far resulted in more than 70,000 casualties and approximately 1.5 million Syrian refugees in neighbouring countries. 
 

Furthermore, Thailand strongly condemns all indiscriminate violent acts against the civilian population and expresses concern about the continued humanitarian crisis in Syria and the affected neighbouring countries.  Thailand has, therefore, extended humanitarian assistance to Jordan and Turkey to help take care of the Syrian refugees. 
 

Thailand reiterates its call for all parties concerned to provide safe and unhindered passages for humanitarian assistance to reach the affected population, as well as to facilitate those in need to have access to such assistance.
 

Lastly, Thailand is of the view that the international community should intensify its efforts in bringing about an immediate end to the violence and actively support peaceful political transition in Syria.  In this context, Thailand strongly believes that any change in Syria should be carried out through an inclusive democratic process with full participation and respect for human rights and the dignity of the Syrian people.