https://arab.news/4sh4z
LONDON: The departure of the Assad family from power in Syria after 53 years is a momentous moment for all Syrians, according to the non-profit group Council for Arab-British Understanding.
A statement from the group said the change allows a new horizon for Syrians who have suffered for years, even decades, under one of the most brutal regimes in history.
Chris Doyle, director of Caabu, said: “To topple this tyrannical leadership in less than two weeks with relatively little bloodshed is extraordinary and bodes well for Syria’s future.
“It is clear that all components of Syrian society agreed that Assad had to go,” Doyle said. “Moreover, whilst the uppermost echelons of this mafia regime have gone, the state has survived, which will be vital in keeping services going and saving the country from a collapse reminiscent of Iraq.”
According to the Caabu statement, international powers, including the UK, must get behind a proper political process to support a Syrian-led political transition in Syria that is inclusive with respect for all communities. This must ensure that the interests of the Syrian people are prioritized above those of external powers who have all too often polarized Syrian society and played a negative, even destructive role, in Syria.
“The donor community must assist in the transition process in a responsible fashion. The immediate humanitarian needs of the Syrian people must be addressed. But the Syrian economy needs to be reignited. Donor states can help in a phased lifting of sanctions, but also with a stimulation of small and medium businesses across the country. The benefits of any transition must be felt across all sectors of society in all areas of the state,” it added.