G7 Signals Support for New Syrian Government, Conditional on Inclusivity, Rule of Law

The Group of Seven (G7) nations are prepared to back a new Syrian government, but only if the transition process upholds the rule of law and protects the rights of religious and ethnic minorities, according to a draft statement obtained by Bloomberg.

The draft, expected to be released later this week, expresses the G7’s hope that all opposition groups vying for power in Syria will demonstrate a commitment to the rights of all Syrian citizens. The statement underscores the G7’s desire to see a peaceful and inclusive transition of power following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad.

“After decades of atrocities committed by the Assad regime, we stand with the people of Syria,” the draft statement read.

A key priority for the G7 is the safe return of Syrian refugees who fled the country during the ongoing conflict, which began in 2011. Many of these refugees sought asylum in G7 member states, particularly Germany, placing a significant strain on resources and social infrastructure.

The statement, however, is still subject to change before its official release.