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Inclusive, Syrian-led political process is the only definitive solution to complex situation in …

Rebel fighters pose as they hold a Syrian opposition flag inside the Umayyad Mosque, after rebels seized the capital in Damascus, Syria. PHOTO: REUTERS

SINGAPORE - The complex situation in Syria can only be resolved definitively through an inclusive, Syrian-led political process, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) spokesperson said.

In a statement on Dec 11, MFA said since the outbreak of the civil war in 2011, more than 300,000 Syrians have been killed and more than 13 million people have been displaced, with many seeking refuge in other countries.

The spokesperson added that Singapore is closely monitoring developments in Syria, and hopes the refugees can return safely to their homes when peace is restored.

She said: “Any meaningful political solution must respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of Syria.

“Foreign powers should not take advantage of the fissures in Syrian society to pursue their own strategic objectives.”

She added that all parties must ensure the safety and well-being of Syrian civilians, who have already suffered so much.

Given the current volatile situation, Singaporeans should continue to avoid travelling to or remaining in Syria, the spokesperson said.

“Singapore has no diplomatic representation in Syria, which constrains our ability to extend consular assistance in an emergency,” she added.

On Dec 8, Syrian rebels on state television said they had ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, ending a 50-year family dynasty in an offensive that raised fears of a new wave of instability in a Middle East already gripped by war.

The lightning advance of a militia alliance spearheaded by Hayat al-Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) - a former al-Qaeda affiliate - marked one of the biggest turning points for the region in generations.

HTS is designated as a terrorist group by the US, Turkey and the United Nations.