India bats for Syria's territorial integrity

India on Monday batted for territorial integrity and sovereignty of Syria amid jostling among the world powers to create zones of influence and divide the country based on their geographical contiguity.

India also called for an inclusive Syrian-led political process that represents aspirations of all sections of the Syrian society that includes Alwaites (Hafez Al-Assad is an Alawite), Kurds and other minorities.

In a clear-eyed statement, the external affairs ministry noted, "We are monitoring the situation in Syria in the light of on-going developments. We underline the need for all parties to work towards preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We advocate a peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led political process respecting the interests and aspirations of all sections of Syrian society. Our Embassy in Damascus is in contact with the Indian community, for their safety and security."


Sources told ET that it was important for India to come out strongly for Syria's territorial integrity when outside forces shaped the ouster of Assad.

While the Assad-led Syria regime consistently backed India on Kashmir and described it as an internal issue even before some other OIC states did so, India has also backed Syria's territorial integrity.

India has backed Syria's sovereignty over Golan Heights (under Israel). In 2010, the then president Pratibha Patil had visited Damascus and reiterated that stance.

"I would also like to reiterate our strong support for Syria's legitimate right to the Golan Heights, and for its ...full return to Syria," Patil had said.