South Africa's position on the current crisis in Syria is that all parties should adhere to the United Nations-led six-point plan of 5 April 2012 and the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2043, which provide the opportunity and basis for all Syrian parties to proceed with a Syrian-led national, peaceful dialogue towards a lasting political solution in Syria.
South Africa condemns the tragic loss of life of ordinary citizens and the destruction of infrastructure in Syria. In a statement to the United Nations Human Rights Council on 1 June 2012, South Africa supported a thorough and immediate investigation into the killings at El-Houleh, with the full involvement of the United Nations Supervision Mission in Syria and the Commission of Inquiry established by the Human Rights Council.
Our position is premised on our conviction that peace and political stability are preconditions for growth and development, also in the case of Syria. In order for that country to prosper, there has to be peace, the cessation of hostilities and political stability.